‘Breath of Nature’ – Nou Sary at Sofitel Phnom Penh: Art in harmony with nature

Cambodian artist Nou Sary, an iconic figure on the contemporary Cambodian art scene, is currently showcasing his exhibition entitled ‘Breath of Nature’ at the Sofitel Phnom Penh gallery.

This 34th exhibition at the Sofitel gallery marks an emotional return for Nou Sary, one of the first artists to have been exhibited in this iconic space dedicated to local art

The opening was a great success, attracting more than 80 enthusiasts who came to admire a subtle blend of new and old works. The contrast between the new pieces and the iconic works offers a lively retrospective, demonstrating both the artist's evolution and the permanence of his artistic commitment.

A style marked by the connection between man and nature

Nou Sary's style is distinguished by a deep immersion in nature and rural Cambodian life. Trained at the Royal University of Fine Arts in Phnom Penh and then at the École des Beaux-Arts in Saint-Étienne, France, he is a multidisciplinary artist who masters painting, sculpture, engraving and installations.

His artistic approach is fuelled by a celebration of both nature and hopes for a better future for his country

His work is characterised by a fusion of impressionist and contemporary techniques that emotionally capture scenes from everyday life in Cambodia: farmers at work, bucolic landscapes and the essential symbiosis between human beings and their environment. Nou Sary evokes the silent poetry of Khmer life in his paintings, oscillating between memory and landscape portraiture, with a rich palette of warm, textured colours.

The artist emphasises:

‘Nature gives us its fruits and flesh, which keep us alive. Then, when we die, we return to the earth from which plants and trees grow: we cannot separate ourselves from nature.’

This philosophy is reflected in each of his works, where rural life and nature become inseparable protagonists.

A major cultural event

The opening, held at the Sofitel Phnom Penh, confirmed Nou Sary's central place in the Cambodian art scene with a large turnout of enthusiasts who came to discover and celebrate this unique exhibition. The evening brought together collectors, art lovers and enthusiasts to celebrate a brilliant artistic career.

By combining old paintings and recent creations, the exhibition tells a complete and emotional story, reflecting the many facets of Nou Sary's talent, but also the transformations of Cambodia through the prism of art.

The Sofitel Phnom Penh Gallery, committed since its inception to promoting Cambodian art, offers with this 34th exhibition a prestigious setting for an artist who has left his mark on history, thus paying him a well-deserved tribute.

More photos of the opening here

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The Gallery

by Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra

Step into The Gallery by Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra and discover an inspiring setting. Showcasing artists based in Cambodia, the Gallery hosts a unique exhibition every quarter that will take you on a journey through a diverse collection of themes and stories.

The Art Gallery is available for private receptions or celebrations for up to 30 people, guaranteeing you an unforgettable moment surrounded by magnificent works of art.

BUY ARTWORK

Sofitel hotels around the world are committed to promoting art and culture, particularly inspiring local talent, and the Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra is no exception. Over the past few years, the Phokeethra Group has been actively involved in the Phnom Penh art scene, regularly organising exhibitions within the hotel to express its active investment and commitment to the arts in Cambodia.