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Phnom Penh, August 8, 2023 - Phare Ponleu Selpak and Agence Française de Développement (AFD) are proud to announce their collaboration in bringing a unique and transformative art project to Battambang Province, Cambodia. The project aims to showcase the province's challenges and opportunities through the captivating lens of art.

The project is supported by the Métis Fund, an innovative initiative launched in 2021 that leverages the arts and artists to strengthen the impact of ongoing development efforts led by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD). With a dedicated focus on achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the project aims to foster sustainable and inclusive development while celebrating Battambang’s rich cultural heritage and artistic life.


The journey began with a successful Phare Design Lab workshop held in Battambang in January 2023, bringing together more than 20 students from Phare Visual & Applied Arts School. This week-long workshop yielded seven remarkable artworks, which were displayed in the garden of the French Embassy on February 20, 2023, in celebration of AFD's 30th anniversary in Cambodia.Building on this success, the project now aims to bring these artworks to a grander scale. The final exhibition will take during a one-day festival in Battambang city center, in October 2023. The project will feature five stunning art installations and a circus performance, all designed to engage and inspire the local community.


The project serves as a testament to the artistic prowess and creativity that thrives in Battambang. It relies in the collaboration of artists and the engagement of local communities to celebrate the Province's rich heritage and potential. It will place great importance on community involvement, inviting residents of Battambang to contribute to the installation, attend the circus performance, and interact with the art pieces.


Phare Ponleu Selpak, AFD and Métis Initiative believe that through this artistic endeavor, they can ignite positive change, inspire sustainable development, and empower communities. They will release more updates in the coming months on this transformative art project and the impactful experience awaited.

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