The “Domner Khmer Art Festival” officially begins today, offering a nostalgic journey into Cambodia’s golden era of culture. Running until Thursday, the three-day event is being held at the Union of Youth Federations of Cambodia (UYFC) headquarters in the Khemarani Building from December 9 to 12, operating daily from 9 am to 9 pm. Organized by UYFC in collaboration with the Domner Khmer team, the festival is supported by the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts and the Ministry of Information.
Highlighting the rich artistry of Cambodia’s past, the festival features a vibrant collection of Khmer films and paintings, showcasing the nation’s heritage before 1975. Hai Kimhong, Assistant Chairman of Domner Khmer, explained the festival’s purpose in an interview with Khmer Times:
“The festival aims to honour our heritage by presenting historical documents to the Cambodian people and highlighting the remarkable artistry of Khmer film and music that once thrived. It seeks to inspire the new generation to explore the rich, vibrant history of Khmer culture before 1975.”
The event serves as a platform to share knowledge and foster a deeper appreciation of Khmer culture, bridging the gap between emerging and contemporary artists. Kimhong further emphasized the importance of empowering Khmer youth to boldly express their creativity and talents.
Among the festival’s highlights are screenings of five iconic Khmer films from the golden era, accompanied by other notable works from the period. A short story writing competition, with awards presented by King Norodom Sihamoni, adds a literary dimension to the celebrations.
A dedicated forum, “Artistic Heritage and Contributions,” brings together esteemed guest speakers to discuss and exchange ideas, enriching participants’ understanding of Cambodia’s cultural legacy. Additionally, a special performance titled “The Spirit of Khmer Cinema” will feature music from the golden era performed by renowned Cambodian artists.
As part of the commemoration, participants will observe a moment of silence to honour the contributions of golden-era artists whose work has left an indelible mark on Khmer culture. “Through performances and commemorative activities, we remember the lasting impact they have had on our heritage,” shared Kimsong, a key organizer.
The 1960s, widely recognized as the ‘Golden Age’ of Cambodia’s film industry, saw the creation of over 300 films and the establishment of numerous local production companies and cinemas. During this period, cinema tickets were affordable, making the magic of film accessible to people from all walks of life.
The Domner Khmer Art Festival not only celebrates this illustrious past but also inspires a new generation to embrace and continue Cambodia’s artistic legacy.
Source: Khmer Times
