Tith Vicharadany
ទិត្យ វិជ្ជរ៉ាដានី
Cambodian actress
60 x 80cm
This painting depicts Tith Vicharadany, a well-known Cambodian actress celebrated for her beauty and talent in the late 1960s and early 1970s. She is shown in a serene setting, smiling softly as she looks up, surrounded by a lush garden of white gardenias and vibrant green foliage. Dressed in a red spaghetti strap dress with a long gold necklace, she exudes elegance and charm. Radany rose to prominence in the Khmer film industry through her roles in several popular films, including "Pheak Kdei Sne" and "Chamrieng Et Preang Tuk." Notable for her charming smile and petite stature, she remains an enduring figure in Cambodian cinema.
Dee Sokhun
ឌី សុខន
Cambodian singer
60 x 80cm
Dee Sokhun is depicted looking up with a cheerful and optimistic expression while surrounded by cosmos yellow and pink poppies, wearing a flowy blue blouse. Her stirring performance of "Lea Phka Traw Bek Prey," the song's iconic vocal, has had a long-lasting influence on Cambodian music. During the turbulent Khmer Rouge era, her music struck a deep chord, particularly with her 1979 hit song " Tear and Blood " which perfectly encapsulated the intense suffering of that time. Dee Sokhun currently resides in the United States.
Nary Hem
ហែម នារី
Cambodian actress
60 x 80cm
In front of vivid red roses and lush dark green foliage, renowned actress Nary Hem is depicted wearing a spaghetti strap dress with a gold pattern and an ornamental belt. She gestures a traditional dance move with her hands and fingers, exuding grace and elegance, her head tilted just enough to showcase her gold earrings and a small smile. An icon of the “Golden Age” of Cambodian cinema, Nary is best remembered for her captivating role as Dara, a beautiful Khmer dancer, in the acclaimed French film “Birds of Paradise” (l’Oiseau de Paradis), where she starred alongside Nop Nem. Her influence in the film industry is still felt today.
Ros Serey Sothea
រស់ សេរីសុទ្ធា
Cambodian singer romantic ballads and rock.
60 x 80cm
Ros Serey Sothea was a celebrated Cambodian singer known for her romantic ballads and rock works during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Born in Battambang, she rose to fame after winning a singing contest and collaborated with top artists like Sinn Sisamouth, earning her the title "Queen with the Golden Voice" from HIS MAJESTY Norodom Sihanouk. Despite her brief career, she recorded hundreds of songs. This striking painting of Sothea captures her serene beauty, depicting her in a green blouse and black choker against a soft background of white flowers, highlighting her elegance and the artist's realistic approach. Today, Sothea's legacy endures, influencing artists and preserved through reissued recordings and documentaries.
Pramavathat Pramouen
ម៉ែ ម៉ឺន (ប្រាម៉ាវ៉ាថាត់ ប្រាម៉ឺន)
Cambodian actress
60 x 80cm
Mae Mourn was a prominent figure in the 1960s Cambodian film industry, who transitioned from a career as a royal ballet dancer to a celebrated actress after being adopted by His Majesty Preah Sisovath. Her notable role as the cruel mother-in-law in "Kour Ouy Chok Chheam" highlighted her talent for portraying complex characters. A vibrant painting captures her cheerful spirit, depicting her in a red sleeveless top with a warm smile, surrounded by bougainvillea and green leaves. The artist's vivid color palette and smooth shading reflect Mae Mourn's enduring legacy, symbolizing her significant impact on Cambodian culture and the performing arts.
So Savoeun
សូ សាវឿន
Cambodian singer
60 x 80cm
So Savoeun was a prominent Cambodian singer born in Kampong Speu province. She is portrayed in a maroon flowy blouse with her hair bundled up, looking to the side against a subtle background of yellow and orange abstract light, symbolizing her vibrant spirit. The daughter of a Khmer Issarak soldier, she moved to Phnom Penh to pursue her music career and married musician Keo Em. Renowned for her clear and sweet voice, she earned the nickname "Sek Meas Ma Lao Pi." She performed with the Phirum Military Band and gained fame for songs like "Opech Chiep," the first Saravan song sung in Cambodia, as well as the famous "Oh Pkay Ler Mek" and "Kampong Luong Duong Chet." Her career was interrupted by the Khmer Rouge, leading to her escape to France in 1976, where she sang for the expatriate community. She returned to Cambodia in 1986 and continued to inspire audiences with her music.
Motherhood
មាតុភាព
60 x 80cm
“Motherhood” is a heartfelt tribute to the strength, love, and resilience of Khmer mothers. Inspired by the beauty of a traditional Khmer family, this painting celebrates the unwavering dedication of a mother who leads her family with grace and courage. Her presence represents not only the foundation of her family but also the enduring spirit of Cambodian women throughout history.
Sopheak Lach, an artist born and raised in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, draws inspiration from her homeland's rich cultural heritage. Through this painting, she honors the stories of Cambodian men and women, ensuring their sacrifices and achievements are cherished and remembered. “Motherhood” is not just a portrait—it’s a story of love, tradition, and the vital role mothers play in shaping the future while preserving the past.
Oum Dara
អ៊ុំ ដារ៉ា
Songwriter, composer, and violinist
60 x 80cm
Oum Dara's impact on Cambodian music is truly remarkable; as a songwriter, composer, and violinist, he played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of an era through collaborations with legends like Sinn Sisamouth and Ros Sereysothea. His song "Rob Oun Neng Hery" remains a classic that captures the essence of that time. Portrayed against a gentle, dreamy background in a white formal shirt and striped tie, he looks passionately at the bow of his violin as he plays. The background features branches adorned with cannonball flowers—delicate blooms with soft pink and white petals—as well as the large, round fruit of the cannonball tree. Dara's journey began in the early ’60s when he moved to Phnom Penh and joined the National Radio of Cambodia, gaining recognition with his big break in 1966 through "Lolok Nhy Chmol." Over the years, he evolved from solely writing music to crafting both lyrics and melodies, creating songs that continue to resonate with audiences today. Though he may not have amassed material wealth, Dara's legacy is rich in cultural significance, as his music is celebrated and cherished, bridging generations and preserving the spirit of Cambodian musical heritage.
Ma Lao Pi
ម៉ា ឡៅពី
Cambodian poet, journalist, and songwriter
60 x 80cm
This portrait of Ma Lao Pi, a Cambodian poet, journalist, and songwriter, depicts him in a formal suit and tie. His calm and serious demeanor is captured through his facial features and the subdued color palette.
The background features lush green leaves and vibrant orange and red birds of paradise flowers, which add a tropical and natural feel to the portrait. Renowned for his radio narration of "Pka Sraw Pon" and as the composer of Sin Sisamuth’s most enchanting song, Ma Lao Pi also wrote numerous original songs, including "Os Song Kherm," "Chomreang Teav Aek," "Bopha Kbal Chroy," and "Moung Bei Yob Menh." His glasses enhance his distinguished presence. The painting's classical style and meticulous details highlight his stature and contributions to Cambodian culture.
Chea Savooen
ជា សាវឿន
Cambodian singer
60 x 80cm
Chea Savooeun is a prominent Cambodian singer, portrayed in soft, diffused light that enhances his gentle smile. Dressed in a white shirt, his hair catches the light from one side, suggesting he is seated in a space illuminated by natural light. Known for his contributions to the modern music scene, he uniquely blends traditional Khmer melodies with contemporary styles, captivating audiences both locally and internationally. He is especially celebrated for singing the famous songs "Ou Prolerng Chong Sok" and "Kansaeng Hout Cheay" alongside Ros Sereysothea. His songs often explore themes of love, life, and cultural identity, solidifying his status as a beloved figure in Cambodia's music landscape.
Kong Som Eun
គង់ សំអឿន
Cambodian actor
60 x 80cm
Kong Som Eun is depicted gazing away, illuminated by light reflecting from his left, dressed in a white blouse and surrounded by a vibrant blend of colors including orange, green, and red, evoking the ethereal quality of dreams. He was the preeminent Cambodian actor of the late 1960s and early 1970s, starring in over half of the films released annually from 1967 to 1975, totaling more than 120 films. Notable movies he appeared in include "Puthisen Neang Kongrei" "Time to cry" Tep Sodachann" and "Wife, where you?
Im Song Soeum
អ៊ឹម សុងសឺម
Cambodian singer
60 x 80cm
Im Song Som was born in Kampong Preah Commune, Battambang Province. A talented singer, he gained recognition by winning competitions while studying at Monivong High School. He later joined the National Propaganda Band and served as a lieutenant colonel in the 13th Infantry Brigade following the Lon Nol coup in 1970. His notable songs include "A trip to Angkor" "Papaya Flower" "Love is Poison" and "Elegant Ladies and Elegant Men " showcasing his significant contribution to Cambodian music. He is depicted with a half-smile, dressed in a suit and tie, exuding optimism against an abstract navy blue background with soft brush strokes and blending.
Chea Yuthon
ជា យុទ្ធថន
60 x 80cm
Chea Yuthan, a prominent Cambodian actor and director during the golden age of Cambodian cinema, is portrayed in a realistic oil painting. The painting captures his serene expression and features fine details in his face, hair, and clothing. His short, dark hair has soft waves, and his expressive, deep-set eyes convey a sense of calm and dignity. Dressed in formal attire, he wears a dark blue jacket, a beige vest, a white shirt, and a brown tie or cravat. The softly blurred background in hues of blue and green enhances the focus on Yuthan's face, making him the central figure of the artwork. Renowned for his versatility, Yuthan starred in numerous films, including "Chhnam Oun 16" and "Chomrieng Et Preang Tuok," showcasing his talents and reflecting the cultural and socioeconomic themes of the era. Despite the challenges faced by the Khmer Rouge regime, Yuthan's influence on the Cambodian film industry continues to be felt today.
Master Kong Nai in Vintage attire
លោកតា គង់ ណៃ ឈុតបុរាណ
(Sold)
70 x 80cm
This painting depicts the legendary Kong Nai, dressed in luxurious, vintage-inspired attire. Wearing a fedora, a black jacket with intricate gold embroidery, a bowtie, and a white dress shirt, he exudes elegance and status. The figure is smoking a cigar, conveying leisure and sophistication. The backdrop is rich drapery with a golden candelabra, adding to the aristocratic atmosphere. The artist combines hyper-realistic facial details with baroque influences in the clothing and setting. The use of rich colours, dramatic lighting, and ornate elements results in a refined and timeless atmosphere that evokes wealth and old-world charm.
Master Kong Nai in Military Jacket
លោកតា គង់ ណៃ ឈុត ទាហាន
70 x 80cm
This painting features Master Kong Nai, a renowned Chapei player, depicted in historically inspired attire. He wears a tricorne hat with gold embroidery and a formal military-style jacket, exuding grandeur and authority. The artist blends realism in his facial features with a historical flair in the clothing, while modern touches like sunglasses create a striking contrast. Swirling smoke from the cigarette adds dynamism, and the muted green and earthy tones of the background enhance the figure's prominence. The overall mood conveys composure, sophistication, and timeless elegance, merging leisure with aristocratic influence.
Master Kong Nai in suit
លោកតា គង់ ណៃ ឈុតផ្លូវការ
70 x 80cm
This painting features a confident yet relaxed Master Kong Nai in formal attire, complete with a white fedora, black vest, blue tie, and sunglasses, casually smoking a cigarette. The artist skillfully blends realism in the figure with an abstract, vibrant background of fragmented brushstrokes. This juxtaposition between the composed subject and the chaotic colors highlights the contrast between personal control and external unpredictability. The figure’s formal, business-like aesthetic conveys professionalism and calm, while the abstract background hints at the unpredictability of the world. The cigarette further underscores themes of leisure and detachment, symbolizing resilience and inner tranquility amidst external turmoil.
Em Theay
ឯម ធាយ
70 x 80cm
Tevnad Nimmith Em Theay, dressed in a lime green patterned shirt and holding both hands in the air, dances with a shy yet contented smile. This royal ballet dancer is a highly respected figure in Cambodian arts and culture. She is a renowned dancer, classical musician, and traditional singer. Her dedication to promoting Khmer cultural heritage has made a significant contribution to the Cambodian arts scene.
Melodies of the past
សូរសៀងមេឡូឌីអតីតកាល
80 x 120cm
This oil painting depicts Kong Nai, the master of Chapei Dong Veng, seated alongside Cambodian singer Vanda. Set against the unmistakable backdrop of Angkor Wat, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the artwork powerfully evokes Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage. Kong Nai, wearing a white robe and sunglasses, plays the Chapei, while Vanda sits next to him, symbolizing the connection between traditional and modern Cambodian music. The artist employs smooth color blending, with rich hues like orange, blue, and gold, enhancing the lifelike quality of the figures. The detailed foreground contrasts with the softer background, drawing focus to the musicians.
Blossom of wisdom
ផ្ការីកនៃប្រាជ្ញា
(Not for sale)
Light of tradition
ពន្លឺនៃប្រពៃណី
80 x 300 cm Oil on canvas
This painting encapsulates a vibrant moment in Cambodia’s cultural history, rich with artistic and intellectual fervor. The arrangement of figures and their interactions creates a vivid tableau that feels both intimate and celebratory.
Keo Sarath Melancholic vocalist in Sronos Dei Khmer and poet and songwriter of Spean Kompong Loung; Kong Bunchouen at the table emphasise the intertwining of literature and artistry, capturing the essence of creativity that defined the era. Details like Sin Sasamuth's blue jacket and Mao Sareth's, the female vocalist of Thpoal Somnol, in striking orange dresses highlight the cultural significance of fashion and identity within this artistic community.
The playful interaction between Pen Ron, also known as Queen of the Golden Voice: Myna Bird, the vocalist in Khernh Kdam Sare, and Ros Sereysothea, the prima donna famous for the song titled Flower Blooms in the Sky, adds warmth, reflecting the camaraderie that artists often share. Notably, an empty seat at the end of the table, with a violin on its stand and a quill beside a stack of books, hints at the ongoing dialogue of creativity.
The painting invites viewers to step back in time, urging them to not only observe but also feel the connections and shared aspirations of these figures. The light illuminating the group serves as a beautiful metaphor for enlightenment and cultural legacy. Ultimately, this work transcends mere representation, standing as a heartfelt homage to the artistic spirit of Cambodia in the 1960s and reminding us of the vital role of community and creativity in shaping cultural identity.