Phnom Penh: The Golden Goddess exhibition is a celebration of divine femininity, cultural heritage, and artistic mastery. Rooted in the rich artistic traditions of Cambodia, this exhibition brings to life the beauty, strength, and grace of Khmer goddesses—embodiments of wisdom, fertility, and protection.
Inspired by the intricate carvings of Angkor Wat and the mythological narratives of Hindu-Buddhist traditions, these artworks reinterpret ancient deities through contemporary perspectives. From the celestial Apsaras, bearers of divine joy, to the mandalas carved into the nagas to the beautiful lotus and waterways, each piece captures the spirit of Khmer spirituality and artistic excellence.
Through photography, painting, and mixed media, the exhibition bridges past and present, offering a space to honour Khmer identity, resilience, and creative evolution. It invites viewers to connect with the timeless elegance of these divine figures and to reflect on the enduring legacy of Khmer cultural heritage.
Alda Waddell, born in South Africa in 1973, transitioned from a successful career as an executive in the automotive industry to embrace her passion for art. It was during a local art class with her daughter that she discovered her love for acrylic dot art and mandala painting.
As the world faced the challenges of Covid-19 and many found themselves without work, Alda seized the opportunity to pursue her artistic journey more professionally.
In her debut exhibition, Alda draws inspiration from the sacred Naga circle, creating vibrant pieces that reflect the harmony and spirituality of nature. Based in Cambodia since 2020, her work invites viewers to embark on a visual journey through intricate patterns that celebrate the intersection of culture and creativity.
Through her acrylic artworks, Alda aims to evoke a sense of peace and introspection, encouraging audiences to connect with the profound beauty of ancient symbols and the transformative power of art.
Lucas Varro, a British artist born in 1966, draws inspiration from the ancient Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, embracing impermanence and imperfection. Based in Siem Reap, he finds his muse in the temples of Angkor, whose centuries-old decay and resilience inform his artistic vision.
Varro’s work explores the interplay between natural wear and human craftsmanship, capturing the spirit of renewal and transformation. Using texture and tone, he creates pieces that evoke the beauty of change, inviting viewers to complete each story with their own imagination. Through his art, Varro celebrates the mysteries of ancient places and lost civilizations, offering a deeply personal reflection on time and transience.
And About Ponleu Prom artist was born in 1994 in Siem Reap province. Ponleu discovered his passion for art at an early age. Despite lacking formal training, his determination led him to the “Colours of Cambodia” art school in Siem Reap, where he attended evening classes. By 2015, Ponleu had honed his skills and embraced his calling as an artist and teacher at the same school.
Ponleu’s work is deeply rooted in Cambodian culture and the natural world. He breathes life into forgotten traditions without reducing them to caricature or pastiche, capturing the beauty of the Khmer countryside and people. His art radiates peace, freedom, nature and love, embodying his connection to Cambodia’s landscapes and heritage.
Over the past decade, Ponleu has participated in group exhibitions across Cambodia. In 2023, he held his first major solo show in Phnom Penh, which received critical acclaim from the media and collectors. He remains dedicated to nurturing the next generation of Cambodian artists through his work with his alma mater.
Photo by: Engly Tuy (Sakura)
