Category Archives: Art

In Memory of Vann Nath

From Arn Chorn-Pond. “Some believe and some do not believe, but they can come and look at my paintings as evidence, and make up their own minds.” – Vann Nath I knew Vann Nath quite well and visited him often – … Continue reading →

Posted September 22, 2011, in Art | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Eternal Flame: The Zippo as Totem, Talisman and ‘Trench Art’

Built on regional artist Bradford Edwards’ 300-strong collection of lighters, “Vietnam Zippo” flirts with America’s obsession with the Vietnam War and revels in that conflict’s lingering anti-war sentiments. Most people can instantly identify a Zippo. Even non-smokers recognize their significance, … Continue reading →

Posted September 19, 2011, in Art, Photography, Vietnam | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Vann Molyvann: An Architect for All Seasons

Vann Molyvann is not just Cambodia’s most revered architect, he is a national icon. His work includes Independence Monument, the Olympic Stadium, Chaktomuk Theater and many, if not most, of Phnom Penh’s landmarks. It doesn’t take an architecture aficionado to … Continue reading →

Posted September 9, 2011, in Art, Phnom Penh | Tagged , | Leave a comment

Vann Nath, survivor of Tuol Sleng, dies at 66

AP reports that Vann Nath, among a handful of souls to survive imprisonment at Tuol Sleng, has passed away. He was 66.

Posted September 5, 2011, in Art | Tagged | Leave a comment

Buying a piece of Angkor

An American couple traveling through Thailand stumbled upon an antiques gallery in Bangkok, where they “fell in love” with a bas relief reportedly acquired from the Baphuon temple at Angkor Wat. The couple had doubts, of course. Was it authentic? … Continue reading →

Posted September 5, 2011, in Angkor Wat, Art | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Vann Nath update

From Jean-Sien, posted today: Vann Nath’s status has been very changing today (heart beat, tension, oxygen blood rate) and we had to face medical complications. His family and friends keep on standing by his side. Doctor thinks that the situation … Continue reading →

Posted September 1, 2011, in Art | Tagged | Leave a comment

The Last Sign Painter

Across the globe, modern printing has all but relegated the hand-painted movie marquee to the cutting-room floor of celluloid history. Yet in Phnom Penh, tradition still holds, and 63-year-old Lim Kiev is the master. All over the planet the graphic … Continue reading →

Posted August 25, 2011, in Art | Tagged , , | 2 Comments