Opening of The Standing Rubble Art Exhibition

Opening at 6pm on Thursday, 17th October, ‘The Standing Rubble’ exhibition is a co-exhibition featuring the works of Rena Chheang and Limhay Chhum, who demonstrate two contrasting architectural views of Phnom Penh. Whilst Chheang focuses on the characteristic colonial buildings, Chhum explores complex futuristic representations.

“I love the library best, designed by Vann Molyvann. He was inspired by the water lily,” said Rena Chheang to What’s On Phnom Penh. She’s painted six buildings that pre-date the Khmer Rouge era and that highlight the richness of Cambodian society. “The buildings are diverse. It tells a small snippet of history about Cambodia.”

Graphic designer Limhay Chhum contrasts the painted pre-war buildings with his drawings of possible (though not realised) structures for Cambodia’s future, inspired by the world and historical legacies. Limhay’s designs focus on shapes and symmetry that conjure peace and harmony, reflecting his dreams of a future utopia of rich urban culture.

The exhibition came together just as organically. “I went to his solo exhibition at Java a while back and loved his architectural futuristic styles/ideas,” said Rena. “I proposed an idea about doing an exhibition together, and he agreed.”

Rena Chheang is a Cambodian painter and photographer at Big Eyes Creative. She started taking photos professionally in 2012 and exhibiting her paintings in 2014. Limhay Chum is a Cambodian graphic designer and creative director at Creative Studio.

Both artists will be at the two-hour opening event to meet-and-greet attendees and answer questions. Guests are welcome to a complementary glass of wine and canapés as the perfect pairing for an evening of beauty.

Thursday, 17th October, 6pm – 8pm, House of Scott, Street 228