"Double Realities"Layers of Truth: Between What We See and What Is Cambodian Artist Rida Srun Brings Printmaking to the Forefront
In an increasingly unstable world, where conflict and uncertainty dominate, meaningful solutions seem harder to reach. Multilateralism struggles to address today’s global crises, as wars continue and authoritarianism gains influence. The optimism that once followed the Cold War fades, replaced by deepening doubt about liberal ideals. In this unpredictable environment, Buddhist philosophy offers a lens: moha (delusion), lobha (greed), and dosa (aversion) are seen as the root causes of suffering and conflict. These concepts echo in the artwork of Rida Srun, whose exhibition Double Realities reflects the complexity and contradictions of our times.
Through woodcut prints and installations, Srun challenges us to look beyond surface meanings. Khmer proverbs and traditional symbols—tigers, crocodiles, dogs, and deer—are reimagined to create layered narratives. Works like That I am Seeing (the Blue) and Dog Fighting for What use color and form to reshape familiar sayings, such as “Enter the water encounter a crocodile, while on land encounter a tiger,” emphasizing themes of danger and struggle. These visual reinterpretations invite viewers to reconsider old wisdom in new light and encourage a meditative engagement with the world. Ultimately, Double Realities blurs the line between myth and truth, asking us to reflect on how stories—personal, cultural, and historical—shape the way we see reality.
Artist Rida Srun
Born in 1992 in Prey Veng, Cambodian artist Rida Srun is gaining recognition for his multidisciplinary work across painting, sculpture, photography, and especially printmaking. After moving to Phnom Penh in 2013, he studied visual arts at the Royal University of Fine Arts (RUFA), graduating in 2017. His exposure to printmaking began at RUFA’s Char Studio—the only facility in Cambodia offering lithography, etching, and woodblock printing.
Srun has since become a leading figure in Cambodia’s contemporary printmaking scene, using the medium to explore social, political, and environmental themes. His distinctive visual approach has earned him spots in international exchange programs, including a semester at the University of Paris 8 (2018) and the ASEAN Artist Residency in Indonesia (2023). His solo exhibitions include Influence (2019) at Sa Sa Art Projects and Remember (2017) at Java Café Gallery. Since 2017, Srun has participated in numerous group shows across Asia and Europe.
#Khmer #KHMERer #art #fineart #artist #draw #painting #gallery #exhibition #Angkor #cambodia #phnompenh
ART ISSUE IN CAMBODIA｜KHMERer.
❝ Embrace Khmer Arts, Explore Together with KHMERer. ❞