Khvay Samnang

Khvay Samnang is one of Cambodia’s most important artists amongst the new generation. Using many approaches such as photography, video, installation, sculpture and performance, he explores new perspectives and interpretations of history, culture and current affairs. He often deals with themes related to the Cambodian context, which, in his humanistic approach also reflects on universal themes. Fluidity, historical significance, and ongoing social and political issues around land have fascinated Khvay for many years. “If you want to learn, you must spend time, and really enjoy!” said Khvay, whose work is often filled with sense of humor. To offer signals, symbolism, and questions in many layers engaging seemingly absurd act of performance lies in the core of his artistic practice. Khvay Samang was born in 1982 in Cambodia, and graduated from Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Phnom Penh in 2006. He has held solo exhibitions at Haus Der Kunst, Munich (2019), Museum of Contemporary Art, Santa Barbara, CA (2016), Jeu de Paume, Paris and CAPC, Bordeaux, Orange County Museum of Art, CA (2015), SA SA BASSAC, Phnom Penh (2011, 2012, 2014), and Tomio Koyama Gallery Singapore (2014). His group exhibitions include documenta 14 (2017), the Asia Pacific Triennial 8, Brisbane, Australia (2015), 4th Singapore Biennale (2013-2014), “Sights and Sounds: Global Video Art”, The Jewish Museum, NYC (2013) among many others. His residencies include TWS Creators in Residence program, Tokyo Wonder Site (2010, 2011), and Künstlerhaus Bethanien, Berlin (2014-2015).