Greetings:

Here comes high season – it’s a bumper list of events this week, after a mini-profile of Cat Isaacs.  

Drop Cloth … a few things you might not know about
 

Cat Isaacs is best known in Cambodia as a singer with The Broken Cymbal and her work with Apple Tree Arts events.  Next weekend she will be performing her play The Sins of the Father, at Speakeasy Theatre/The Box Office on Thursday 23 – Saturday 25, 7.30 pm.  Tickets available here.

An artist or an aspect of the arts that you think is overrated
Big budget production without a director who knows what they’re doing.  So there’s so many talented, brilliant people who are just not given a shot because either they don’t have a name yet, or they’re fresh out of university, or they have a concept but no one’s giving them that door.  And sequel after sequel of garbage is being churned out, not giving space to new directors and new ideas.  I’m not worried for the arts in that way, but I wish that a lot of that budget could go towards up and coming artists with fresh ideas, different eyes and different ways of doing things.  I wish I had enough money to do it myself. 

An artist or an aspect of the arts that you think is underrated
In South Africa there is often very little budget, and you have to do a lot with a little – you have to be creative, you have to be imaginative, using limited sets and props.  I think that’s an underrated way of performing.  I’m not a big fan of realism.  And I think absurdist and experimental theatre – we call it poor theatre – it’s not celebrated enough because there’s no grandiosity or spectacle. 

An early arts memory
I was four, and my mum was friends with a lady I knew as Aunty Judy.  I remember exactly what she was wearing – a long blue skirt, a white blouse, and she was greying.  She had access to the backstage on a production of The Wizard of Oz at the State Theatre in Pretoria.  I remember seeing the witch have the bucket of water thrown on her and melt into the stage.  I felt it in my soul that that is something I wanted to be a part of.  And then having the privilege of being taken backstage, walking through with Aunty Judy – she was talking with everyone, I don’t know how involved she was or if she just knew someone in the show, but the way that she was interacting with people backstage, and I thought I want to be able to do this as well, with the crew, the wardrobe, the make-up.  I just wanted to be a part of that world, making those stories come to life on stage.  Such a vivid memory.

The last thing you had to eat
I had shakshuka for breakfast this morning, with extra bacon and peppermint tea. 

How did you get your start in theatre?
I got started on television first – I was on a game show version of Kideo, when I was three years old, it was my favourite show.  Then I did work as an extra in high school.  Theatre was not encouraged in my household, in fact I was actively discouraged from considering it as a career.  I only really got into a theatre space in high school – after our drama course was deleted from the curriculum a group of us got together and fought to have it reinstated. Then I did a drama degree at university.      

When did you first come to / first leave Cambodia?
It seems so long ago but so yesterday.  Towards the end of COVID, June 26 2021.  I remember the date because I missed my nephew’s birthday on the 29th. 

A book or movie you keep going back to
Shrek!  It is my comfort movie, I’ve loved it since I was ten years old, when it came out.  It ties in to memories of my mum and my sister, going to the movies as girls together.  Shrek is very important to me.  It wasn’t really made for children, there were a lot of themes in there – that feeling of being an outsider and being so misunderstood and lonely, I identified so much with Shrek as a character.  The yearning for closeness while not being able to do anything about yourself that inspires the opposite.  Also the best sequel ever made is Shrek 2. 

What languages do you speak?
English and Afrikaans.  I can speak a little bit of Spanish – I can get by on greetings and asking for food things in almost every language. 

A country that you would like to visit
There aren’t many that are still on my list but definitely Malaysia.  I want to go to Kuala Lumpur, and I’ve heard really good things about Langkawi.  Apparently my grandfather on my father’s side has Malaysian heritage or some kind of connection.  And I really want to go to Hong Kong Disneyland. 

Something people might be surprised to know about you
I’m shy.   A lot of people think I’m a very outgoing, confident person, which is true, but if not in a true performance space on stage or for a gig, I get really bashful in life settings.  Also I play the drums, and I’m pretty good – not to professional level.  And I’m really good at maths, algebra and geometry – but not trigonometry, I hate trigonometry.  

A question from last week’s participant:
Given the vast number of people putting their art into the public sphere and the lack of attention of the average individual, coupled with a modern obsession with tearing down those who achieve great things, do you think that’s possible for a great, era-defining artist to emerge and—if so—how might this happen?
I think that in the past the communities that these great artists emerged out of were quite small, and those small communities decided that the work was great.  Maybe one in 20 are talented, or maybe two out of 20 are talented, and out of those two one has encouragement and love and family support, so that’s the one that everybody sees.  So it becomes great work because it is the only work.  Nowadays, there are so many fabulous artists, singers, musicians, actors, dancers – it’s saturated, because there are more people in the world.  And social media has given everyone the space to have an opinion, so the community of people who decide what is great and not great is open to the masses, and the masses are not necessarily educated in the arts, and it is difficult to separate an informed opinion for an uninformed opinion.  A lot of people want to put their work into the public sphere but are afraid of having it ripped to shreds.  I  teach my students, and I also have to keep reminding myself – you must rip your own work to shreds before you put it out there, so nothing can touch you, because it’s also not you that you’re putting out, it’s your work, it doesn’t define who you are as a person, but do it anyway.  If the fear of what somebody else is going to say about it is holding you back then you don’t deserve to put it out yet, and you need to do some self-work.  Being an artist is not creating great work, it’s creating work.  There’s always the chance that down the line a future eye will find your work somewhere and it’s going to change their life. 

Event listings:

Tuesday 14 at Meta House sees the opening of Nature of Women, an exhibition by emerging Cambodian artists Billy S and Fia Ry, with contributions from Reaksa Bung (painting), Sao Sopheak (video), Yon Davy (dance), and Chan Vimean (text).  6 pm. 
More info

On Wednesday 15 at Raffles Le Royal the French Institute presents a jazz concert by Marion Rampal (FR), a  tribute to Abbey Lincoln.  “Far from a conventional tribute reaching for the stars, Song For Abbey is a gesture of living memory that seeks to invoke and share the spirit of an immense artist, one who considered jazz as the most conducive form to what she called “character building.”   Featuring Arthur Alard (drums), Laurent Vernerey (bass), Bruno Ruder (piano) and Matthis Pascaud (guitar).
More info and tickets

Wednesday 15 at The Box Office, Comedy in Cambodia presents the improvised show Stand-up Unscripted at 7.30 pm. 
More info

Thursday 16 at Friends Futures Factory, Creative Generation presents Life, an evening of performance and conversation with Performance Lab artist in residence composer Gardika Gigih with Lokru Nuon Sok and Ni-O Panha.  6 pm.  Then on Sunday 19, at the same location, Gardika Gigih presents two workshops, Sound Story at 1.30 pm and Collective Composition at 4 pm. 
More info

Friday 17 at Factory, a special event featuring a screening of The Perfect Motion by Xavier de Lauzanne, a documentary about the history of the Royal Ballet of Cambodia workshop, plus live performances by the Princess Buppha Devi Dance School.  Q&A to follow.  Tickets from $5.  6 pm. 
More info and tickets

Saturday 18 at Bophana Center is Alive, a new exhibition by Kim Hak, “a long-term photography project that brings memories attached to objects.”
More info

Also Saturday 18 at The Box Office, Comedy in Cambodia presents Comedic Stylings featuring Raven Krystal, Andrew Leyva, Matthew Reading, David Benaim and Sam Thomas.  Tickets $5.   7.30 pm. 
More info

Also also on Saturday 18 Meta House presents the 14^th Chaktomuk Short Film Festival, 77 short films divided into World Cinema Spotlight (6 pm) and Asian Cinema Spotlight (8 pm).  Followed on Sunday 19 by sessions on Life and Lessons (6 pm) and a Cambodian Filmmaker panel discussion (8 pm).  All films with English subtitles.  Free entry. 
More info – Saturday
More info – Sunday

And in Siem Reap on Saturday 18 The River Gallery is holding a raffle of works from their Colors of Cambodia exhibition, featuring work by Julia Haw, Ponleu Prom, Bill Gentry, Sor Sophany and Loun Lon.  Funds raised go to their educational programme for children and teens – they are celebrating 25 years of providing free arts education.  You can purchase $2 raffle tickets online in advance, and you don’t have to be present to win. 
More info

On Sunday 19, a classical recital: Martin Ng (SG) sings German Masterpieces of Romanticism at Raffles Le Royal.
More info and tickets

Coming to The Box Office on October 23 – 25 is The Sins of the Father, a theatrical piece written and performed by Cat Isaacs – see Drop Cloth above.  Minimum age 16.   More info and tickets

On October 23, Sra’Art present a night of art roulette.  6 pm. 
More info

October 24, the French Institute presents a night of contemporary dance with Dalila Belaza (FR) at the Canadian International School of Phnom Penh. 
More info

The Bong Bonlai/YK Art House Day Time Open Mic is returning to a regular monthly schedule starting October 25 (a Saturday).   4 pm start, with a special free introduction to the Phnom Penh Ukulele Circle from 3 pm for the ukulele curious. 

The next (15^th!) Musica Felica choir charity concert, Living Hope will be held at Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra on October 26. 

For Halloween, October 30 and 31, LoKey Theater present The Haunted Theatre Mystery.  Each experience lasts 30–45 minutes. Minimum age 16.
More info

Starting in November, new Tuol Tom Pong venue The House of Jazz will be hosting a poetry night every third Wednesday of the month.  Currently seeking a host and interested poets. 
More info via email

Currently at Sosoro – Preah Srey Içanavarman Museum is Into the Light: the retrieved painting of Phnom Penh’s Silver Pagoda, paintings rediscovered in the Preah Keo Morkot Church. Open daily (except Monday) from 9 am – 6 pm. 

Ongoing….

Exhibitions:  

The Gallerist
Rolling exhibitions of mostly Cambodian artists.  Currently on display is work by Chov Theanly.
More info

Meta House
Nature of Women, an exhibition by emerging Cambodian artists Billy S and Fia Ry, with contributions from Reaksa Bung (painting), Sao Sopheak (video), Yon Davy (dance), and Chan Vimean (text).  6 pm. 
More info

MiMü
Mini-Museum of Contemporary Art at Meta House features research, knowledge sharing, workshops, and visual presentations through various media, showcasing videos, prints, installations, and fine arts through interactive events and live performances.  Currently on display are paintings by Svay Ken.   “Svay Ken’s paintings illustrate scenes from everyday life in Cambodia that are often charged with the presence of unsettling forces beyond the picture frame.”
More info

Plantation
Human Canvas: Portraits of Identity, a solo photography exhibition by Joaquin Barata.  Exhibition runs until October 19.  Media:  Cambodianess
More info

Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor (Siem Reap)
Harmony, a show by Morn Chear and Nak Noy with TRIBE Cambodia curated by Nat Di-Maggio.
More info

The River Gallery (Siem Reap)
Exhibition by Colors of Cambodia Collective featuring Hour Soben, Thy Channarak, Sorm Narath, Loun Lon, Sophany Sor, Sophanin Sor, Bill Gentry, Son Kosal, Set Soeng and Julia Haw.
More info

Romchiek 5 Art Space
Battambang contemporary art studio.  Rolling exhibitions.  Media: Le Petit Journal (FR)(June 2025)

Sosoro – Preah Srey Içanavarman Museum
The current temporary exhibition is Into the Light: the retrieved painting of Phnom Penh’s Silver Pagoda, paintings rediscovered in the Preah Keo Morkot Church. Open daily (except Monday) from 9 am – 6 pm. 

Space Four Zero
Art gallery and vinyl lounge featuring prints, paintings, vintage posters, pop art, books, CDs and rare vinyl, collectables and groovy gifts.  Open daily at new premises at #25 Street 240 near Street 19 (by The Shop and Red Apron)
More info

Sra’Art
Nature’s Palette, a contemporary art exhibition by Emily Marques.  “Explore nature’s rhythms of death, rebirth, chaos, and renewal through vibrant paintings that reflect resilience and harmony.”  Thursday 9 Emily will present an artist talk and do some live painting. 

Tribe Cambodia (Siem Reap)
Permanent showroom for works of Nak Noy.
More info

Regular events, classes, sessions:

N o w h e r e Art Studio (relocated to Maloop) occasional workshops.
More info

No Frame Party hosts weekend art workshops in a variety of forms at venues around Phnom Penh. 

Life Drawing Phnom Penh – Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6.30pm, at Station 350.

More Flamingos present art workshops on Tuesday evenings from 6.30 pm at WILD. 
More info

Thursdays to Sundays at K’Atelier – art classes for all levels of experience. 
More info

A weekly class in life drawing for kids with Anastasia at Pteah Chas Community.
More info

Khmer Architecture Tours conducts Sunday architecture tours in Phnom Penh to promote the understanding of modern architecture in Cambodia, focusing on buildings erected after independence in 1953, described as ‘New Khmer Architecture’, while setting these in the historical context of Phnom Penh.  Here is the schedule for January – June 2025. 

Kumnooh was established in May 2013 as a sister publication to LengPleng.com, the online music magazine for Cambodia, to provide basically a gig guide for the wider arts, covering art galleries, literature, dance, cinema, photography and now comedy. 

Perhaps you would consider becoming a Friend of Kumnooh, where we ask venues, artists and/or individuals to show their support by making a small monetary contribution (12 months for $75, six months for $40 or three months for $25) to keep the lights on and to increase our coverage with articles and mini-profiles.  In return you receive a boost in promotion, including a non-Facebook web page on our site for direct contact with the dedicated arts audience.  Queries by return email – fabianhipp@kumnooh.com.

For a more rock’n’roll view of Phnom Penh and the wider Cambodian music scene, please check out our sister publication lengpleng.com, the long running live music gig guide.

Send a ‘subscribe’ email to fabianhipp@kumnooh.com to receive Kumnooh in your inbox every Tuesday lunchtime.

Are we missing something?  Let us know at fabianhipp@kumnooh.com.
See you about…

Fabian Hipp
Kumnooh
fabianhipp@kumnooh.com

Department of Mutual Support: Friends of LengPleng (and Kumnooh too)
Crossing over from our sister site LengPleng are supporters YK Art House and Space Four Zero.  For less than 6,000 riel a week you too could have your venue/business promoted deep into the arts audience; or you might just like to support the work being done by these two entities who trawl Facebook so you don’t have to.  For more information: fabianhipp@kumnooh.com / gigs@lengpleng.com, or bail up Scoddy wherever you see him.  

Greetings:

Event listings:

Now open at F3 Gallery is Carts & Canopy – an art exhibition of line drawings by Chinese national and Phnom Penh resident Xiaolin.  Until September 12.
More info

Wednesday 20 at The Box Office, Comedy in Cambodia presents standup unscripted at 7.30 pm, then on Saturday 23 a standup comedy showcase – same location, same time. 
More info

On Saturday 23 and Sunday 24, at Sosoro – Preah Srey Içanavarman Museum, Colin Grafton will give gallery talks as part of the exhibition of photographs Cambodia: November 28, 1972 – April 7, 1976.
More info

On August 27 at Creative Generation Lab /  Java Creative Cafe TTP, the performance of Our Value, an original theatrical piece (work in progress), accompanied by an artist talk by the writer Prom Vorleak.  “This experimental theater piece explores the lives, resiliency, and vulnerability of four women based on true stories.”
More info

Coming simultaneously to Maloop , Kinin and Nesat Seafood House on August 30 is Phnom Penh Eclectic, a group photographic exhibition organised by Phnom Penh Photography Collective and Cambodian Children’s Fund. 
More info

Ongoing….

Exhibitions:  

Blue Art Hub (Siem Reap)
Self-Punishment for Life, a new exhibition by Nget Chanpenh.  “Across 13 paintings rendered entirely in black and orange, he invites us on a journey in two acts: a somber descent into self-destruction (Paintings 1–6), where male figures dressed in orange garb are swallowed by black voids; a gradual reemergence (Paintings 8–13), where black silhouettes rise against radiant orange backdrops, like shadows at sunset.”  Until August 10. 
More info

The Gallerist
Rolling exhibitions of mostly Cambodian artists.  Currently on display is work by Nou Sary.
More info
Institut Francais
A photographic exhibition, Facing the Khmer Rouge – the French Embassy stuck in the collapse of Phnom Penh in April/May 1975.  Until August 22. 
More info

Meta House
Crash and Bloom, an exhibition of paintings by Emily Marques.  “The title lends itself to her love of nature and her broad spectrum of artwork that focuses on the masses of flowers clamouring for the sun and waves that crash amongst themselves.”  Media: Kiripost  Until September 14.
More info

MiMü
Mini-Museum of Contemporary Art at Meta House features research, knowledge sharing, workshops, and visual presentations through various media, showcasing videos, prints, installations, and fine arts through interactive events and live performances.  Currently on display are paintings by Svay Ken.   “Svay Ken’s paintings illustrate scenes from everyday life in Cambodia that are often charged with the presence of unsettling forces beyond the picture frame.”
More info

Plantation
Souvenir de Myope, an exhibition of paintings by Roma (Romain Garzonio).  “17 abstract paintings and 4 sculptures—shaped by the softened contours of his own myopic vision.” Until September 7.
More info

Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor (Siem Reap)
Harmony, a new show by Morn Chear and Nak Noy with TRIBE Cambodia curated by Nat Di-Maggio.
More info

The River Gallery (Siem Reap)
Exhibition by Colors of Cambodia Collective featuring Hour Soben, Thy Channarak,
Sorm Narath, Loun Lon, Sophany Sor, Sophanin Sor, Bill Gentry, Son Kosal, Set Soeng
and Julia Haw.
More info

Romchiek 5 Art Space
Battambang contemporary art studio.  Rolling exhibitions.  Media: Le Petit Journal (FR)(June 2025)

Silapak Trotchaek Pneik / YK Art House
Double Realities, a new series by Srun Rida.  Until 14 July.  Media:  Cambodianess
More info

Sosoro – Preah Srey Içanavarman Museum
Cambodia: November 28, 1972 – April 7, 1976, an exhibition of photographs by Colin Grafton.  Until August 31(closed on Mondays).  Gallery talks are scheduled for Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 at 4 pm.  

Space Four Zero
Art gallery and vinyl lounge featuring prints, paintings, vintage posters, pop art, books, CDs and rare vinyl, collectables and groovy gifts.  Open daily at new premises at #25 Street 240 near Street 19 (by The Shop and Red Apron)
More info

Sra’Art
apART, an exhibition of paintings by the Kinza Lena in memory of the late Ender Erbek.  Until July 21. 
More info

Stairwell Gallery
“French-Cambodian artist and activist Adana Mam Legros uses art to explore Cambodia’s layered history and the emotional weight of its past. Her work reflects personal memories of
growing up during political unrest, while addressing the broader psychological impact
of Cambodia’s collective trauma.”
More info

Tribe Cambodia (Siem Reap)
Reopened in their new location, 655 Hup Guan Street.   Media:  Kiripost
More info

Regular events, classes, sessions:

N o w h e r e Art Studio (relocated to Maloop) offers  More info

No Frame Party hosts weekend art workshops in a variety of forms at venues around Phnom Penh. 

Life Drawing Phnom Penh – Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6.30pm, at Station 350.

More Flamingos present art workshops on Tuesday evenings from 6.30 pm at WILD. 
More info

Thursdays to Sundays at K’Atelier – art classes for all levels of experience. 
More info

Traditional shadow art performance by Sovanna Phum Arts, every Friday from 5 pm at The Box Office/Speakeasy Theatre.

A weekly class in life drawing for kids with Anastasia at Pteah Chas Community.
More info

Khmer Architecture Tours conducts Sunday architecture tours in Phnom Penh to promote the understanding of modern architecture in Cambodia, focusing on buildings erected after independence in 1953, described as ‘New Khmer Architecture’, while setting these in the historical context of Phnom Penh.  Here is the schedule for January – June 2025. 

Kumnooh was established in May 2013 as a sister publication to LengPleng.com, the online music magazine for Cambodia, to provide basically a gig guide for the wider arts, covering art galleries, literature, dance, cinema, photography and now comedy. 

Perhaps you would consider becoming a Friend of Kumnooh, where we ask venues, artists and/or individuals to show their support by making a small monetary contribution (12 months for $75, six months for $40 or three months for $25) to keep the lights on and to increase our coverage with articles and mini-profiles.  In return you receive a boost in promotion, including a non-Facebook web page on our site for direct contact with the dedicated arts audience.  Queries by return email – fabianhipp@kumnooh.com.

For a more rock’n’roll view of Phnom Penh and the wider Cambodian music scene, please check out our sister publication lengpleng.com, the long running live music gig guide.

Send a ‘subscribe’ email to fabianhipp@kumnooh.com to receive Kumnooh in your inbox every Tuesday lunchtime.

Are we missing something?  Let us know at fabianhipp@kumnooh.com.
See you about…

Fabian Hipp
Kumnooh
fabianhipp@kumnooh.com

Department of Mutual Support: Friends of LengPleng (and Kumnooh too)
Crossing over from our sister site LengPleng are supporters YK Art House and Space Four Zero.  For less than 6,000 riel a week you too could have your venue/business promoted deep into the arts audience; or you might just like to support the work being done by these two entities who trawl Facebook so you don’t have to.  For more information: fabianhipp@kumnooh.com / gigs@lengpleng.com, or bail up Scoddy wherever you see him.  

Kumnooh: Cambodia arts for week commencing 12 August 2025

Greetings:

Drop Cloth: a few things you might not know about

Colin Grafton.   These days widely known in Cambodia as a harmonica player and singer, Colin was present in Phnom Penh from November 1972 to April 1975, during which time he was taking photographs.  An exhibition of his photos from that period are to be on display at Preah Srey Içanavarman Museum – Sosoro, opening on Saturday 16 and running through to August 31(closed on Mondays).  Additionally, gallery talks are scheduled for Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 at 4 pm.   Colin says: “I see these questions are about artists in the fields of visual or performing arts, so I shall try to keep music (which is my favourite art) out of it. It might be difficult.”

An artist or an aspect of the arts that you think is overrated 
For some reason, the iconic Andy Warhol springs to mind. I never watched any of his films (all the way through) so I may be biased.  But then I never watched the Empire State Building for eight hours either.  Andy made a few statements, but that’s it for me.  Nowadays, the more that technology is involved at the expense of human endeavour in art, the less interested I am.

An artist or an aspect of the arts that you think is underrated 
Difficult question. Are we talking about on an international basis? I’m a bit out of touch with that. Cambodia has some brilliant artists in the fields of visual art – Sopheap Pich, Thang Sothea, the Battambang Romcheik 5 painters – and dance -Sophiline, the New Cambodian Artists, the Buppha Devi dancers – and they are getting some attention on the world stage… but not enough. I almost forgot photographers! Kim Hak and Philong Sovan, and of course Steve Porte.

An early art memory 
Thank you for asking that question… (a ploy used for Q&A when you can’t think of a good answer). Apart from Bill and Ben the Flowerpot Men on TV, I think of painting. I developed an early appreciation of the Impressionists, probably because that’s how I saw the world as a child until my teacher realised I needed glasses. After that came Surrealism (Salvador Dali) and Hieronymous Bosch. A bit dark. I tried painting. My art teacher’s comment: “Hmm, meaty”.

The last thing you had to eat 
An easy one: egg-and-shallot fried rice with Japanese rice bran radish pickles, sautéed chicken breast with Australian fake Colman’s mustard, miso soup with wakame seaweed and aburaage fried tofu, and tomato and cucumber salad.

How did you get your start? 
Start what? In the art world? Well, I’m not an artist, but I fell into photography in Laos 55 years ago when I bought a secondhand Olympus Pen from an American housewife for $5. It was my first good camera. A second start, I suppose, came when I returned to Cambodia with a load of old photos and found people were interested in them.

When did you first come to / first leave Cambodia? 
Due to recent research, I now know that I first entered the Khmer Republic on 28th November 1972, and then I left on 7th April 1975.

A book or movie you keep going back to 
I’m a bit of a movie freak but I don’t get enough time to go back much. A few favourites (I can’t choose one) are “Withnail and I”, “Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead”, “Kwaidan” and “Tampopo” (Japanese), “Dreamchild” and “The Taming of the Shrew” (Liz Taylor/Richard Burton version). I can always go back to those. Books… again I don’t go back much. I used to read a lot of fiction. “Steppenwolf” and Herman Hesse made a big impression. “The Quiet American” (it’s what you might expect?), “The Honorary Consul” and “Travels With My Aunt” (I was in Paraguay for three years) from Graham Greene. And definitely Norman Lewis’s “A Dragon Apparent”.

What languages do you speak? 
Linguistically, I am a train wreck, which is most unfortunate. It could have made life much easier and more interesting, but I don’t have a knack for languages. So my English is not bad (even if they can’t understand me in London) and I have smatterings of French and Spanish and smutterings of Japanese, Lao and Khmer.

A country that you would like to visit 
Many beginning with”M”: Mali, Madagascar & Mongolia. Mainly for the Music.

Something people might be surprised to know about you
I have (very diluted) Portuguese royal family blood in my veins. My brother found that out.

A question from the last participant: What is a significant turning point in your life and how has it altered its trajectory?
There were four. Leaving England to come to Asia in 1969 (the Plan was for one year); being in Cambodia in 1975 (led me to Japan); meeting my wife in 1999; and an elderly dancer in Japan in 2007 (brought me back here).

Event listings:

Opening Saturday 16 at Preah Srey Içanavarman Museum – Sosoro in the Temporary Exhibition Hall is Cambodia : November 28, 1972-April 7, 1975, a panoramic retrospective of photographs taken by Colin Grafton in Cambodia between 1972 and 1975, with special focus on the gemstone area of Pailin and the Khmer classical dance troupe, and a backdrop of life in the city of Phnom Penh during the civil war. Until August 31, 9:00-18:00, closed Mondays. Gallery talks will be held on August 23 and 24 at 4 pm.

Coming on August 23 at The Box Office: Comedy in Cambodia presents a standup comedy showcase.  7.30 pm. 
More info

Ongoing….

Exhibitions:  

Blue Art Hub (Siem Reap)
Self-Punishment for Life, a new exhibition by Nget Chanpenh.  “Across 13 paintings rendered entirely in black and orange, he invites us on a journey in two acts: a somber descent into self-destruction (Paintings 1–6), where male figures dressed in orange garb are swallowed by black voids; a gradual reemergence (Paintings 8–13), where black silhouettes rise against radiant orange backdrops, like shadows at sunset.”  Until August 10. 
More info

The Gallerist
Rolling exhibitions of mostly Cambodian artists.  Currently on display is work by Nou Sary.
More info

Institut Francais
A photographic exhibition, Facing the Khmer Rouge – the French Embassy stuck in the collapse of Phnom Penh in April/May 1975.  Until August 22. 
More info

Meta House
Crash and Bloom, an exhibition of paintings by Emily Marques.  “The title lends itself to her love of nature and her broad spectrum of artwork that focuses on the masses of flowers clamouring for the sun and waves that crash amongst themselves.” 
More info

MiMü
Mini-Museum of Contemporary Art at Meta House features research, knowledge sharing, workshops, and visual presentations through various media, showcasing videos, prints, installations, and fine arts through interactive events and live performances.  Currently on display are paintings by Svay Ken.   “Svay Ken’s paintings illustrate scenes from everyday life in Cambodia that are often charged with the presence of unsettling forces beyond the picture frame.”
More info

Plantation
Souvenir de Myope, an exhibition of paintings by Roma (Romain Garzonio).  “17 abstract paintings and 4 sculptures—shaped by the softened contours of his own myopic vision.” Until September 7.
More info

Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor (Siem Reap)
Harmony, a new show by Morn Chear and Nak Noy with TRIBE Cambodia curated by Nat Di-Maggio.
More info

The River Gallery (Siem Reap)
Exhibition by Colors of Cambodia Collective featuring Hour Soben, Thy Channarak,
Sorm Narath, Loun Lon, Sophany Sor, Sophanin Sor, Bill Gentry, Son Kosal, Set Soeng
and Julia Haw.
More info

Romchiek 5 Art Space
Battambang contemporary art studio.  Rolling exhibitions.  Media: Le Petit Journal (FR)(June 2025)

Silapak Trotchaek Pneik / YK Art House
Double Realities, a new series by Srun Rida.  Until 14 July.  Media:  Cambodianess
More info

Space Four Zero
Art gallery and vinyl lounge featuring prints, paintings, vintage posters, pop art, books, CDs and rare vinyl, collectables and groovy gifts.  Open daily at new premises at #25 Street 240 near Street 19 (by The Shop and Red Apron)
More info

Sra’Art
apART, an exhibition of paintings by the Kinza Lena in memory of the late Ender Erbek.  Until July 21. 
More info

Stairwell Gallery
“French-Cambodian artist and activist Adana Mam Legros uses art to explore Cambodia’s layered history and the emotional weight of its past. Her work reflects personal memories of
growing up during political unrest, while addressing the broader psychological impact
of Cambodia’s collective trauma.”
More info

Tribe Cambodia (Siem Reap)
Reopened in their new location, 655 Hup Guan Street.   Media:  Kiripost
More info

Regular events, classes, sessions:

N o w h e r e Art Studio (relocated to Maloop) offers  More info

No Frame Party hosts weekend art workshops in a variety of forms at venues around Phnom Penh. 

Life Drawing Phnom Penh – Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6.30pm, at Station 350.

More Flamingos present art workshops on Tuesday evenings from 6.30 pm at WILD. 
More info

Thursdays to Sundays at K’Atelier – art classes for all levels of experience. 
More info

Traditional shadow art performance by Sovanna Phum Arts, every Friday from 5 pm at The Box Office/Speakeasy Theatre.

A weekly class in life drawing for kids with Anastasia at Pteah Chas Community.
More info

Khmer Architecture Tours conducts Sunday architecture tours in Phnom Penh to promote the understanding of modern architecture in Cambodia, focusing on buildings erected after independence in 1953, described as ‘New Khmer Architecture’, while setting these in the historical context of Phnom Penh.  Here is the schedule for January – June 2025. 

Kumnooh was established in May 2013 as a sister publication to LengPleng.com, the online music magazine for Cambodia, to provide basically a gig guide for the wider arts, covering art galleries, literature, dance, cinema, photography and now comedy. 

Perhaps you would consider becoming a Friend of Kumnooh, where we ask venues, artists and/or individuals to show their support by making a small monetary contribution (12 months for $75, six months for $40 or three months for $25) to keep the lights on and to increase our coverage with articles and mini-profiles.  In return you receive a boost in promotion, including a non-Facebook web page on our site for direct contact with the dedicated arts audience.  Queries by return email – fabianhipp@kumnooh.com.

For a more rock’n’roll view of Phnom Penh and the wider Cambodian music scene, please check out our sister publication lengpleng.com, the long running live music gig guide.

Send a ‘subscribe’ email to fabianhipp@kumnooh.com to receive Kumnooh in your inbox every Tuesday lunchtime.

Are we missing something?  Let us know at fabianhipp@kumnooh.com.
See you about…

Fabian Hipp
Kumnooh
fabianhipp@kumnooh.com

Department of Mutual Support: Friends of LengPleng (and Kumnooh too)
Crossing over from our sister site LengPleng are supporters YK Art House and Space Four Zero.  For less than 6,000 riel a week you too could have your venue/business promoted deep into the arts audience; or you might just like to support the work being done by these two entities who trawl Facebook so you don’t have to.  For more information: fabianhipp@kumnooh.com / gigs@lengpleng.com, or bail up Scoddy wherever you see him.  

Greetings:

Event listings:

Thursday 31 at Sra’Art, a live painting event as part of apART, an exhibition of paintings by the Kinza Lena in memory of the late Ender Erbek.
More info

Currently at Plantation is Souvenir de Myope, an exhibition of paintings by Roma (Romain Garzonio).  “17 abstract paintings and 4 sculptures—shaped by the softened contours of his own myopic vision.”
More info

Coming on August 9 to The Box Office, presented by Comedy in Cambodia, is Canadian-Filipino comic Ron Josol, along with Malaysian support act Papi Zak.
More info

Coming on August 11 to Meta House is Crash and Bloom, an exhibition of paintings by Emily Marques.  “The title lends itself to her love of nature and her broad spectrum of artwork that focuses on the masses of flowers clamouring for the sun and waves that crash amongst themselves.”
More info

Ongoing….

Exhibitions:  

Blue Art Hub (Siem Reap)
Self-Punishment for Life, a new exhibition by Nget Chanpenh.  “Across 13 paintings rendered entirely in black and orange, he invites us on a journey in two acts: a somber descent into self-destruction (Paintings 1–6), where male figures dressed in orange garb are swallowed by black voids; a gradual reemergence (Paintings 8–13), where black silhouettes rise against radiant orange backdrops, like shadows at sunset.”  Until August 10. 
More info

The Gallerist
Rolling exhibitions of mostly Cambodian artists.  Currently on display is work by Thun Dina.
More info

Institut Francais
A photographic exhibition, Facing the Khmer Rouge – the French Embassy stuck in the collapse of Phnom Penh in April/May 1975.  Until August 22. 
More info

Meta House
The Fluffy Mood, an exhibition of handmade art rugs by Cambodian/French artist Va Chercher Bonheur. 
More info

MiMü
Mini-Museum of Contemporary Art at Meta House features research, knowledge sharing, workshops, and visual presentations through various media, showcasing videos, prints, installations, and fine arts through interactive events and live performances.  Currently on display are paintings by Svay Ken.   “Svay Ken’s paintings illustrate scenes from everyday life in Cambodia that are often charged with the presence of unsettling forces beyond the picture frame.”
More info

Plantation
Souvenir de Myope, an exhibition of paintings by Roma (Romain Garzonio).  “17 abstract paintings and 4 sculptures—shaped by the softened contours of his own myopic vision.”
More info

Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor (Siem Reap)
Harmony, a new show by Morn Chear and Nak Noy with TRIBE Cambodia curated by Nat Di-Maggio.
More info

The River Gallery (Siem Reap)
Exhibition by Colors of Cambodia Collective featuring Hour Soben, Thy Channarak,
Sorm Narath, Loun Lon, Sophany Sor, Sophanin Sor, Bill Gentry, Son Kosal, Set Soeng
and Julia Haw.
More info

Romchiek 5 Art Space
Battambang contemporary art studio.  Rolling exhibitions.  Media: Le Petit Journal (FR)(June 2025)

Silapak Trotchaek Pneik / YK Art House
Double Realities, a new series by Srun Rida.  Until 14 July.  Media:  Cambodianess
More info

Space Four Zero
Art gallery and vinyl lounge featuring prints, paintings, vintage posters, pop art, books, CDs and rare vinyl, collectables and groovy gifts.  Open daily at new premises at #25 Street 240 near Street 19 (by The Shop and Red Apron)
More info

Sra’Art
apART, an exhibition of paintings by the Kinza Lena in memory of the late Ender Erbek.  Until July 21. 
More info

Stairwell Gallery
“French-Cambodian artist and activist Adana Mam Legros uses art to explore Cambodia’s layered history and the emotional weight of its past. Her work reflects personal memories of
growing up during political unrest, while addressing the broader psychological impact
of Cambodia’s collective trauma.”
More info

Tribe Cambodia (Siem Reap)
Reopened in their new location, 655 Hup Guan Street.   Media:  Kiripost
More info

Regular events, classes, sessions:

N o w h e r e Art Studio (relocated to Maloop) offers a workshop in Hand-Building Ceramics for Beginners on Saturday 2.  More info

No Frame Party hosts weekend art workshops in a variety of forms at venues around Phnom Penh. 

Life Drawing Phnom Penh – Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6.30pm, at Station 350.

More Flamingos present art workshops on Tuesday evenings from 6.30 pm at WILD. 
More info

Thursdays to Sundays at K’Atelier – art classes for all levels of experience. 
More info

Traditional shadow art performance by Sovanna Phum Arts, every Friday from 5 pm at The Box Office/Speakeasy Theatre.

A weekly class in life drawing for kids with Anastasia at Pteah Chas Community.
More info

Khmer Architecture Tours conducts Sunday architecture tours in Phnom Penh to promote the understanding of modern architecture in Cambodia, focusing on buildings erected after independence in 1953, described as ‘New Khmer Architecture’, while setting these in the historical context of Phnom Penh.  Here is the schedule for January – June 2025. 

Kumnooh was established in May 2013 as a sister publication to LengPleng.com, the online music magazine for Cambodia, to provide basically a gig guide for the wider arts, covering art galleries, literature, dance, cinema, photography and now comedy. 

Perhaps you would consider becoming a Friend of Kumnooh, where we ask venues, artists and/or individuals to show their support by making a small monetary contribution (12 months for $75, six months for $40 or three months for $25) to keep the lights on and to increase our coverage with articles and mini-profiles.  In return you receive a boost in promotion, including a non-Facebook web page on our site for direct contact with the dedicated arts audience.  Queries by return email – fabianhipp@kumnooh.com.

For a more rock’n’roll view of Phnom Penh and the wider Cambodian music scene, please check out our sister publication lengpleng.com, the long running live music gig guide.

Send a ‘subscribe’ email to fabianhipp@kumnooh.com to receive Kumnooh in your inbox every Tuesday lunchtime.

Are we missing something?  Let us know at fabianhipp@kumnooh.com.
See you about…

Fabian Hipp
Kumnooh
fabianhipp@kumnooh.com

Department of Mutual Support: Friends of LengPleng (and Kumnooh too)
Crossing over from our sister site LengPleng are supporters YK Art House and Space Four Zero.  For less than 6,000 riel a week you too could have your venue/business promoted deep into the arts audience; or you might just like to support the work being done by these two entities who trawl Facebook so you don’t have to.  For more information: fabianhipp@kumnooh.com / gigs@lengpleng.com, or bail up Scoddy wherever you see him.  

Greetings:

Event listings:

Tuesday 1 at Institut Francais is a screening of Depuis le jardin, a new short film by Eleonore Sok, with a discussion to follow.  In French with English subtitles.  6.30 pm. 
More info

Thursday 3 Sra’Art presents a special live painting, exhibition and DJ event at the Royal Railway Station, Phnom Penh.  Paintings by Li M.H. and Kinza.  From 6 pm. 
More info

On Saturday 5 Bong Bonlai / YK Art House are kicking off the Day Time Open Mic, all-ages friendly, for performers, readers and trickmasters of all stripes.  One drink for each performer – sign up in advance and get a free taco.  2 – 4 pm. 
More info

Also on Saturday 5, at Blue Art Hub in Siem Reap, is the opening of Self-Punishment for Life, a new exhibition by Nget Chanpenh.  “Across 13 paintings rendered entirely in black and orange, he invites us on a journey in two acts: a somber descent into self-destruction (Paintings 1–6), where male figures dressed in orange garb are swallowed by black voids; a gradual reemergence (Paintings 8–13), where black silhouettes rise against radiant orange backdrops, like shadows at sunset.”  Until August 10. 
More info

On July 8 Meta House presents The Power of Poetry: reclaiming voice in the face of sexual and gender-based violence, featuring a reading by Phaneoun Phon and open mic.  From 7 pm. 
More info

Ongoing….

Exhibitions:  

The Gallerist
Rolling exhibitions of mostly Cambodian artists.  Currently on display is work by Nou Sary.
More info

Institut Francais
A photographic exhibition, Facing the Khmer Rouge – the French Embassy stuck in the collapse of Phnom Penh in April/May 1975.  Until August 22. 
More info

Meta House
The Fluffy Mood, an exhibition of handmade art rugs by Cambodian/French artist Va Chercher Bonheur. 
More info

MiMü
Mini-Museum of Contemporary Art at Meta House features research, knowledge sharing, workshops, and visual presentations through various media, showcasing videos, prints, installations, and fine arts through interactive events and live performances.  Currently on display are paintings by Svay Ken.   “Svay Ken’s paintings illustrate scenes from everyday life in Cambodia that are often charged with the presence of unsettling forces beyond the picture frame.”
More info

Plantation
Golden Goddess: a celebration of divine femininity, cultural heritage and artistic mastery, a group exhibition by Lucas Varro, Ponleu and Alda Waddell.  “From the textured echoes of Angkor’s ancient temples to intricate mandalas inspired by sacred geometry and the gentle rhythms of the Cambodian countryside—each artwork invites reflection, reverence, and renewal.”  Media: Cambodge Mag (FR)  Pteah Chas
More info

The River Gallery (Siem Reap)
Exhibition by Colors of Cambodia Collective featuring Hour Soben, Thy Channarak,
Sorm Narath, Loun Lon, Sophany Sor, Sophanin Sor, Bill Gentry, Son Kosal, Set Soeng
and Julia Haw.
More info

Romchiek 5 Art Space
Battambang contemporary art studio.  Rolling exhibitions.  Media: Le Petit Journal (FR)(June 2025)

Silapak Trotchaek Pneik / YK Art House
Double Realities, a new series by Srun Rida.  Until 14 July.  Media:  Cambodianess
More info

Space Four Zero
Art gallery and vinyl lounge featuring prints, paintings, vintage posters, pop art, books, CDs and rare vinyl, collectables and groovy gifts.  Open daily at new premises at #25 Street 240 near Street 19 (by The Shop and Red Apron)
More info

Sra’Art
apART, an exhibition of paintings by the Kinza Lena in memory of the late Ender Erbek.  Until July 21. 
More info

Stairwell Gallery
“French-Cambodian artist and activist Adana Mam Legros uses art to explore Cambodia’s layered history and the emotional weight of its past. Her work reflects personal memories of
growing up during political unrest, while addressing the broader psychological impact
of Cambodia’s collective trauma.”
More info

Tribe Cambodia (Siem Reap)
Reopened in their new location, 655 Hup Guan Street.   Media:  Kiripost
More info

Regular events, classes, sessions:

N o w h e r e Art Studio (relocated to Maloop) offers workshops in Hand-Building Ceramics for Beginners on Saturday 5 and 19 July.  More info

No Frame Party hosts weekend art workshops in a variety of forms at venues around Phnom Penh. 

Life Drawing Phnom Penh – Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6.30pm, at Station 350.

More Flamingos present art workshops on Tuesday evenings from 6.30 pm at WILD. 
More info

Thursdays to Sundays at K’Atelier – art classes for all levels of experience. 
More info

Traditional shadow art performance by Sovanna Phum Arts, every Friday from 5 pm at The Box Office/Speakeasy Theatre.

A weekly class in life drawing for kids with Anastasia at Pteah Chas Community.
More info

Khmer Architecture Tours conducts Sunday architecture tours in Phnom Penh to promote the understanding of modern architecture in Cambodia, focusing on buildings erected after independence in 1953, described as ‘New Khmer Architecture’, while setting these in the historical context of Phnom Penh.  Here is the schedule for January – June 2025. 

Kumnooh was established in May 2013 as a sister publication to LengPleng.com, the online music magazine for Cambodia, to provide basically a gig guide for the wider arts, covering art galleries, literature, dance, cinema, photography and now comedy. 

Perhaps you would consider becoming a Friend of Kumnooh, where we ask venues, artists and/or individuals to show their support by making a small monetary contribution (12 months for $75, six months for $40 or three months for $25) to keep the lights on and to increase our coverage with articles and mini-profiles.  In return you receive a boost in promotion, including a non-Facebook web page on our site for direct contact with the dedicated arts audience.  Queries by return email – fabianhipp@kumnooh.com.

For a more rock’n’roll view of Phnom Penh and the wider Cambodian music scene, please check out our sister publication lengpleng.com, the long running live music gig guide.

Send a ‘subscribe’ email to fabianhipp@kumnooh.com to receive Kumnooh in your inbox every Tuesday lunchtime.

Are we missing something?  Let us know at fabianhipp@kumnooh.com.
See you about…

Fabian Hipp
Kumnooh
fabianhipp@kumnooh.com

Department of Mutual Support: Friends of LengPleng (and Kumnooh too)

Crossing over from our sister site LengPleng are supporters YK Art House and Space Four Zero.  For less than 6,000 riel a week you too could have your venue/business promoted deep into the arts audience; or you might just like to support the work being done by these two entities who trawl Facebook so you don’t have to.  For more information: fabianhipp@kumnooh.com / gigs@lengpleng.com, or bail up Scoddy wherever you see him.