Exhibition: Jean-Michel Gallet's lens captures three decades of rural life in Cambodia at the Bophana Center

The rural heart of Cambodia is in the spotlight in a new exhibition at the Bophana Center, where French photographer JM Gallet unveils more than 30 years of photographic dedication to the country's farmers.

Entitled “Cambodian Farmers: 30 Years of Resilience,” this exhibition is a comprehensive visual chronicle that captures the dignity, hardship, and perseverance of Cambodian farming communities. Meticulously selected, JM Gallet's works offer visitors a rare glimpse into the daily lives of those who form the backbone of the country's economy and culture.

Covering a period from the early 1990s to the present day, JM Gallet's photographs are more than just documentation; they are a tribute. Each image, whether depicting the rhythmic work of rice planting or moments of rest under the midday sun, resonates with empathy and respect. The exhibition traces the evolution of rural Cambodia, bearing witness to both the subtle transformations and the enduring traditions that define village life.

Visitors to the exhibition are greeted by a series of black-and-white and color prints, each meticulously composed to highlight the textures of the earth, the play of light on the water, and the expressive faces of the farmers at work. Gallet's lens lingers on hands—weathered, strong, and skilled—reminding viewers of the intimate connection between people and the land. The result is a collection that not only immortalizes individuals but also elevates the collective narrative of rural Cambodian society.

Beyond aesthetics, the exhibition is a poignant reminder of the challenges facing Cambodian farmers, from environmental uncertainties to the changing economic landscape. Yet, through Gallet's compassionate lens, the resilience and hope of these communities shine through, offering a message of perseverance and pride.

The Bophana Center, renowned for its commitment to preserving and promoting Cambodian heritage, provides the perfect setting for this retrospective. The exhibition invites local and international visitors to reflect on the essential role of agriculture in Cambodia's past, present, and future, and to appreciate the artistic talent that emerges when documentary photography meets deep cultural commitment.

JM Gallet's “Cambodian Farmers: 30 Years of Resilience” testifies to the enduring power of photography to connect worlds and generations, paying an eloquent tribute to farmers whose stories, once fleeting, are now immortalized for all to discover.

See the exhibition online