Cambodia Innovates with S.E.A. Ocean Gallery: Asia's First Large-Scale Underwater Museum off Kep

Cambodia innovates with the S.E.A. Ocean Gallery, Asia's first large-scale underwater museum, located off the coast of Kep. This project fuses contemporary art, marine restoration, and local culture to transform the coast into an ecological and artistic hub.

An Innovative and Evolving Concept

The gallery will deploy 8.5 kilometers from the coast, in a protected fisheries management area of the Kep archipelago, named Koh Karang. The sculptures, 3D-printed with porous mineral materials and geopolymers, will mimic natural reefs to encourage coral attachment, shelter fish, and support biodiversity, without disrupting existing habitats.

These works will evolve over time: colonized by marine fauna and flora, they will become living ecosystems rather than static statues. Themes like memory, climate, myth, identity, and justice will inspire the artistic commissions, positioning the site as a rigorous curatorial platform rooted in Cambodian identity.

The Key Players in the Project

Knai Bang Chatt by Kep West is leading the initiative alongside Art for Kep and Marine Conservation Cambodia (MCC), which has been active since 2008 in protecting southern Cambodian coastal ecosystems. Jef Moons, founder of Knai Bang Chatt, emphasizes: “This isn’t about placing objects underwater, but creating a space where art becomes part of life again, evolves, and fuses with the ocean.”

Paul Ferber of MCC highlights the scientific aspect: the structures act as regenerative habitats, in partnership with universities and scientists for marine research. The project has preliminary support from the National Committee for Coastal Development and the Cambodian ministries of Culture, Tourism, and Environment.

A 10-Year Vision for Kep

Launched in 2026, this decade-long roadmap aims to make Kep a regional hub for art, ocean conservation, and climate by 2035. Digital experiences like virtual dives and augmented reality exhibitions will democratize access, while jobs in tourism, conservation, and creativity will benefit the local community.

Art for Kep, a pioneer with land-based installations like Sothea Thang's Coral Kingdom sculpture, is paving the way for this ocean gallery, strengthening sustainable cultural tourism. Related projects like K.E.P Lighthouse integrate art and ecology for a vibrant coastal ecosystem.

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