Breath of the River: Cambodian Artists Unite to Protect the Lifeblood of the Nation
At the heart of Cambodia’s rich culture and natural beauty lies a story of connection — between people, rivers, and the rhythms of life that sustain them. This connection flows through “Breath of the River,” a stunning three-month exhibition by five emerging artists from Phare Ponleu Selpak, hosted at Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra from November to January.
The exhibition showcases nearly 20 captivating artworks by Bor Hak, Van Chhorvorn, Channy Chhoeun, Soeurm Kakada, and Sophy Sou. Each piece celebrates Cambodia’s great waterways — the Mekong River and Tonle Sap Lake — not just as natural wonders, but as symbols of hope, memory, and national heritage.
Art that Flows with Purpose
Through vivid paintings and mixed media installations, the artists transport viewers into the heart of Cambodia’s waterscapes. The works highlight the dazzling biodiversity that thrives along the riverbanks and the centuries-old traditions that have shaped communities living in harmony with the flow of these rivers.
Artist Soeurm Kakada shared that the theme was born from concern about the growing environmental pressures facing these waterways.
“Our rivers face multiple threats, such as riverbank erosion and illegal fishing, which are causing biodiversity loss,” Kakada explained. “We want to show that rivers are like the veins of our planet — if they are damaged, everything around them suffers.”
Inspiration from Nature
Among the featured pieces, Sophy Sou’s large-scale paintings capture the grace and fragility of Cambodia’s aquatic life. Her inspiration came from a visit to Kratie province, home to the country’s beloved Irrawaddy dolphins.
“I wanted to highlight these creatures because many people are unaware of them,” Sou said. “Through my art, I hope visitors see the beauty of these ecosystems and understand why we must protect them.”
A Call to Protect the Lifelines of Cambodia
“Breath of the River” is more than an art exhibition — it’s a call to action. By portraying both the beauty and the vulnerability of Cambodia’s waterways, these artists invite reflection, responsibility, and hope. Their works remind us that safeguarding the rivers means protecting the very essence of Cambodian life.
Visitors are encouraged to not only appreciate the art but to join the growing movement toward a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable future — for Cambodia and for the planet.