Rosewood Phnom Penh unveils “Food Meets Art,” a unique collaboration between the culinary and visual arts of Chef Seng Sothea and Nou Sary

Rosewood Phnom Penh is proud to present “Food Meets Art,” a captivating exhibition that brings together the culinary artistry of renowned Cambodian chef Seng Sothea and the visual artistry of celebrated artist Nou Sary. Every Thursday in July, this unique event features 20 exclusive original paintings by Nou Sary and invites guests to enjoy a refined dinner prepared by Chef Sothea.

Nou Sary, a Cambodian visual artist from Kandal province, has pursued his passion for art since he was a child. A graduate of the Royal University of Fine Arts (RUFA) in Phnom Penh, Sary honed his skills at the École régionale des beaux-arts de Saint-Étienne in France. Known for his works that blend traditional painting, sculpture, and conceptual art, Sary is currently influenced by Impressionism and weaves captivating stories about rural life and Cambodian traditions through his art. His unique style fuses memory and landscape to evoke the essence of Cambodia with rich colors, textures, and emotions.

According to Sary, "Cambodian art, whether painting, sculpture, or any other form of expression, has existed and flourished for over a thousand years. Unfortunately, we lost many talented artists during the wars. However, today, a new generation of young Cambodian artists and creators is emerging. They are creating unique and captivating works using their own ideas while preserving and expressing Cambodia's identity."

Chef Seng Sothea is originally from Kampong Cham province and began his culinary journey at the age of 18. After working in prestigious hotels in Cambodia and around the world, he returned home in 2009 to launch the “new cuisine of the Mekong.” This innovative approach combines traditional Khmer flavors with international techniques, showcasing Cambodian ingredients such as Tonlé Sap fish, Kampot pepper, galangal, lemongrass, and turmeric to create refined dishes.

“Cambodian cuisine is balanced and harmonious, reflecting our identity. Through this collaboration, we hope to inspire locals and international visitors to discover Cambodian culture in a new light,” explains Chef Sothea.

The partnership between Nou Sary and Chef Sothea began in 2014 when they first met in Siem Reap.

 This chance encounter led to a creative collaboration that has lasted for ten years. Chef Sothea was deeply moved by Sary's visual interpretations of Khmer identity, while Sary admired the authenticity and innovation of Chef Sothea's culinary creations. “Food Meets Art” celebrates this synergy.

 Each of Sary's 20 paintings is inspired by Khmer ingredients, cuisine, and rural life, capturing the spirit of Cambodian cuisine and its inextricable link to culture and tradition. One remarkable work depicts a golden rice field during harvest, paying tribute to the work, resilience, and harmony between people and the land.

The “Food Meets Art” exhibition is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, until July 31, 2025, on the 35th floor of the Rosewood Phnom Penh art gallery.

Every Thursday in July, guests can reserve a spot for an exclusive Khmer-inspired dinner, a five-course culinary journey meticulously crafted by Chef Sothea, served amidst Nou Sary's stunning artwork.