Phnom Penh: February 12, 2025 Following the resounding success of its inaugural edition, the Ekarieach Multi Art Award returned for its second year, continuing its mission to celebrate artistic excellence and provide a platform for creative talent. The prestigious event, proudly supported by Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra as the primary sponsor, took place in 2025, showcasing a diverse array of artistic expressions inspired by this year’s compelling theme, “Water” (“L’Eau” / “Teuk”).
With over 200 submissions received from 19 different nationalities between ages 9 years being the youngest and 80 years being the oldest, an expert panel of judges’ meticulously shortlisted 67 outstanding pieces exhibited at the event. These artworks reflected the significance of water in sustaining life, shaping cultures, and addressing pressing environmental concerns, such as scarcity and pollution. Through different artistic mediums, the competition highlighted the necessity of preserving this invaluable resource.
Mr. Charles-Henri Chevet, Area General Manager of Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “We are honored to support the Ekarieach Multi Art Award for a second year. This competition highlights the immense talent within Cambodia and beyond, while also emphasizing the importance of art in addressing global issues such as environmental sustainability.”
Mr. Jean Morel, Manager of ReCreation-Cambodia.com, added, “The passion and creativity displayed by the artists this year are truly remarkable. It is inspiring to see how they have interpreted the theme of ‘Water’ in such diverse and thought-provoking ways. We hope this platform continues to encourage and uplift artists in the years to come.”
The Ekarieach Multi Art Award was established with the goal of fostering artistic innovation and recognizing excellence across various disciplines. The competition was made possible by its dedicated founder, Mr. Charles-Henri Chevet Area General Manager, Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra; Mr. Jean Morel: Manager, ReCreation-Cambodia.com; and Mr. Pierre Rol, Founder, Le Lézard Bleu. The jury for this year’s competition comprises esteemed professionals from the art and cultural sectors: Ms. Lysine Khao, Ms. Adrienne Ravez, Mr. Casey Barnett, Mr. Denis Laurent, Mr. Charles-Henri Chevet, Mr. Jean Morel, and Mr. Pierre Rol.
Prize Categories and Awards
- Jury Award Winner: Soeung Vannara, Makor Face ($2,000, Trophy)
- Sculpture: $750 Winner: Cyril Berthet – Stalact ($750, Certificate)
- Sculpture: $750 1st Runner-Up: Ouk Chimvichet, Solidarity (Certificate)
- Sculpture: $750 2nd Runner-Up: Pisey Sreang, Water Drop (Certificate)
- Digital Graphic Art: $750 Winner: Rotanak Rith Bon, The Striving Soul ($750, Certificate)
- Digital Graphic Art: $750 1st Runner-Up: Kanika Doeun, Salvation (Certificate)
- Digital Graphic Art: $750 2nd Runner-Up: Sewkhy Tan – Serene (Certificate)
- Fine Art Photography: $750 Winner: Sereyvann Nakim, Life Along The Riverside ($750, Certificate)
- Fine Art Photography: $750 1st Runner-Up: Bunchan You – Teuk (Certificate)
- Fine Art Photography: $750 2nd Runner-Up: Vannak Khun, Water Of Life (Certificate)
- Art Design, Drawing, and Painting: $750 Winner: Karona Hoeuy, Immortal Water ($750, Certificate)
- Art Design, Drawing, and Painting: $750 1st Runner-Up: Justina Edwardsen, Fish For Two (Certificate)
- Art Design, Drawing, and Painting: $750 2nd Runner-Up: Esther Suh, Flooded Phnom Penh (Certificate)
- A Growing Legacy in Cambodia’s Art Scene
The Ekarieach Multi Art Award quickly became a significant cultural event in Cambodia, attracting both local and international artists. The competition’s previous edition, held in 2024, commemorated Cambodia’s 70th Independence Day, drawing 160 submissions, of which 41 finalists were featured in a highly acclaimed exhibition at Sothe Sofitelhnom Penh Phokeethra. Last year’s winners, including Mr. Daro Nout, Ms. Melissa Quach, and Ms. Ork Socheata, were recognized for their exceptional creativity and artistic impact.
As a champion of the arts, Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra continued to serve as a key patron in Cambodia’s cultural landscape. By providing a platform for artists to showcase their work and engage with the public, the hotel reinforced its dedication to fostering artistic growth and dialogue.
Photo by: Supplied
