Last Saturday, in the intimate setting of the prestigious Rosewood Phnom Penh gallery, the eagerly-awaited vernissage of Franco-Khmer photographic artist Vutheara Kham took place.
This was his first solo exhibition in the land of his ancestors, and he was delighted to be supported by his parents and close friends, who came especially for the event. The exhibition of 36 exclusive images was divided into several themes, each revealing little-known aspects of subjects that are nonetheless essential to Khmer culture.
A keen photographer, Vutheara Kham chose to immerse himself in sacred rituals, such as the sak Yant Dak Sak ceremony dedicated to Kun L bokator, conducted by the venerable monk Lok Kru Maha Visal and second black krama practitioner Derek Bidaut.
For the Kun Khmer, he preferred to go to an unusual location to see the training sessions and meet local practitioners.
His passion for skateboarding being omnipresent, he decided not to put it aside and highlighted a promising and talented generation, present at the event.
Sections were devoted to the temples and iconic sites of Khmer Srok, as well as to everyday scenes that he magnifies with his bucolic vision.
Finally, his immersive quest led him to Vietnam, where he presented a series of atypical and intimate portraits.
The exhibition runs until 20 April on the 35th floor of the Rosewood Phnom Penh.
The artist would like to thank Ms Giordano Pauchet and the entire team at the Rosewood, as well as everyone who attended the event.
Photos by Sofia Chaban
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