Based on our previous research (Rogers et al 2021) we noticed a difference between how artists think the arts relate to society, and how young people imagine this relationship. Young people wanted to see (and connected most strongly to) art works that more immediately engaged with the pressing social issues of Cambodia, many of which…

After 25 years of preserving, reviving, and developing Cambodian arts, Cambodian Living Arts has received royal recognition from the King, serving as inspiration for the organisation to open a new chapter in the Kingdom’s creative sector. Cambodian Living Arts (CLA) has expressed its delight after receiving the prestigious Royal Recognition during the Royal Audience with…

After introducing rural communities to traditional Musical instruments, the Khmer Magic Music Bus initiative is expanding its reach to the capital, hosting events that aim to raise the profile of the traditional art form among the youth living in Phnom Penh city! The Khmer Magic Music Bus (KMMB) programme was inspired by the misunderstanding surrounding…

Arn Chorn-Pond Musician, Human Rights Activist, and Founder of Cambodian Living Arts In 1984, Arn Chorn-Pond became the first Cambodian child soldier to speak publicly about the atrocities committed during the Cambodian genocide. He gave a speech to 10,000 people at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York. Since that time, Arn…

Photo Gallery from the Seven Colours Festival

Seven Colours Festival Hailed Resounding Success CLA’s Seven Colours Festival was organized by four interns with the aim of providing an inclusive space for youth to explore and celebrate the arts   The Seven Colours Festival was curated by four young festival interns from various backgrounds that represent the diverse voices of Cambodian youth. From…

Message of Gratitude from Phloeun Prim, ED of CLA As 2023 draws to a close, a year that marks the inspiring 25th anniversary of Cambodian Living Arts, we would like to take a moment to reflect and express our deepest gratitude. Over the past quarter-century, CLA has grown from a grassroots initiative, established in 1998…

“I hope that arts and youth in society will have more opportunities and respect to express their original ideas while remaining true to themselves,” We would like to share some exciting news. In December 2023, we’re hosting the Seven Colours Festival, a unique event celebrating the power of young people, art, and their impact on…

The Cultural Season is the perfect platform for new local artists to showcase their talent, preserve endangered traditional art forms, and enrich the lives of artists. It provides an opportunity for growth and builds human resources within the art sector. We are committed to supporting and empowering local artists, ensuring the preservation and promotion of…

Following a successful run in February and March in Phnom Penh, the cultural season went on a tour to four different provinces. We were visiting 12 unique communities in Kompong Thom, Preah Vihear, Kampong Chhnang, and Pailin provinces. It was a good opportunity to connect with diverse audiences and bring the magic of our Cultural…