PRESS RELEASES
The group exhibition unites Cambodian and international artists to pay homage to Phnom Penh’s illustrious past and unparalleled renaissance
October 26, 2023
Rosewood Phnom Penh is proud to partner again with Tribe Cambodia to present “Diamonds are Forever,” a vibrant group exhibition exploring Phnom Penh’s renaissance as the “pearl of Asia”.
Held from October 26 to December 4, 2023, and co-curated by Tribe co-founder Nat Di Maggio, the exhibition brings together nine Cambodian and six international artists spanning a rich variety of styles and genres.
From the intimate photography of Phirom Styles and Nak Noy’s fluid, surreal Khmer paintings, to Hour Soben’s colorful juxtaposition of ancient Angkor motifs with contemporary forms and Ponleu’s evocative oil paintings, which he carefully forms with a palette knife, “Diamonds are Forever” showcases stunning pieces from many of Cambodia’s most exciting artists.
“Phnom Penh is enjoying a remarkable transformation, building on the qualities that made it one of Asia’s greatest destinations for so much of the 20th century,” says Daniel Simon, Managing Director of Rosewood Phnom Penh. “We are not only proud to be a part of the city’s return to glory, but also to help elevate Cambodia’s talented creatives who are fueling this growth.”
The exhibition also highlights the work of international artists such as Carne Griffiths, who uses ink, tea and alcohol to create vivid calligraphic works; black-and-white photographer Jo Farrell, who turns the lens on disappearing traditions and cultures; and Frank Zhen, whose paper pieces exhibit traditional Chinese motifs and those which represent his new home in Cambodia.
As part of the exhibition, Seekers Spirits – makers of the award-winning Mekong Dry Gin – will release 60 limited-edition bottles of its “Pearl of Asia” gin. These exclusive bottles feature Nak Noy’s “The Pearl of Asia” piece, which commemorates Phnom Penh’s illustrious reputation from the 1920s to 1970s. Subtle symbols appear on the label, including Cambodia’s national flower - the sweet-smelling rumduol - juniper berries, representing the flavor of Seekers’ fine gins and Irish shamrocks, an image that pays homage to Tribe’s late co-founder Terry McIlkenny.
All proceeds from the gin will go to Phare Ponleu Selpak, the Battambang-based non-profit that empowers communities – especially children – through art, education and social support.
The exhibition launches with an exclusive private viewing on October 28, which includes three special appearances.
Nak Noy will be signing and customizing bottles of Pearl of Asia gin, while Ponleu will hold a live painting performance and Carne Griffiths will hand-finish prints of his new piece, “Heavenly Princess” – a tribute to Norodom Buppha Devi, the late Cambodian princess, dancer and Minister of Culture and Fine Arts.
“Diamonds are Forever” is on display from October 26 to December 4, 2023 at the Rosewood Phnom Penh Art Gallery, located on the hotel’s 35th floor and open 24 hours a day. Following the private viewing, the exhibition will be free and open to the public.
