Deadline: 01-Jun-2026
The Living Structures initiative invites emerging Cambodian artists, architects, and creative designers to apply for artist grants supporting the creation of new works inspired by Cambodia’s New Khmer Architecture movement. The programme highlights the legacy of Vann Molyvann and explores how architecture shapes Cambodia’s cultural, social, and urban identity.
The grants support artistic research and production at the intersection of art, architecture, and urban development.
Programme Overview
The initiative focuses on creative exploration of Cambodia’s architectural heritage and its influence on contemporary urban life. It encourages artists to engage with historical and modern interpretations of space, identity, and design.
Key thematic areas include:
- Legacy of Vann Molyvann and New Khmer Architecture
- Relationship between art, architecture, and urban space
- Cambodia’s evolving urban identity
- Social, cultural, political, and economic dimensions of architecture
- Contemporary interpretations of architectural heritage
- Creative responses to urban transformation
Funding Details
- Number of grantees: 5 selected artists
- Grant amount: USD 1,200 per grantee
- Output requirement: At least 3 original artworks per selected participant
- Exhibition: Group exhibition in Phnom Penh (August 2026) at Vann Molyvann’s former residence
The grant supports research, creative development, and production of new artworks.
Eligible Art Forms
Applicants may submit work in the following formats:
Eligibility Criteria
The programme is open to:
- Emerging Cambodian artists
- Architects based in Cambodia
- Creative designers working in Cambodia
- Individual applicants or collaborative teams
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Interest in architecture and urban design
- Engagement with creative or conceptual practice
- Relevance to New Khmer Architecture themes
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- Current CV
- Artist statement and description of current practice
- Portfolio of recent work (maximum file size: 10 MB)
- Project proposal outlining:
- Concept
- Artistic objectives
- Relevance to Living Structures themes
Programme Objectives
The grants aim to:
- Support emerging creative talent in Cambodia
- Promote research-based artistic practice
- Reinterpret New Khmer Architecture in contemporary contexts
- Encourage dialogue between art and urban design
- Preserve and expand awareness of architectural heritage
- Strengthen cultural identity through creative expression
Expected Outcomes
- Creation of new artworks inspired by Cambodian architecture
- Increased visibility for emerging Cambodian creatives
- Strengthened engagement with architectural heritage
- Public exhibition of contemporary interpretations of urban space
- Expanded dialogue on Cambodia’s urban future
- Development of interdisciplinary art-architecture practices
Why the Programme Matters
- Preserves the legacy of Vann Molyvann and modern Cambodian architecture
- Encourages creative reinterpretation of urban spaces
- Supports emerging artists and designers
- Strengthens cultural and architectural identity
- Promotes interdisciplinary collaboration between art and architecture
- Enhances public engagement with urban heritage
Conclusion
The Living Structures Artist Grants programme provides targeted support for emerging Cambodian creatives to explore and reinterpret New Khmer Architecture. By combining artistic practice with architectural heritage, the initiative fosters new perspectives on Cambodia’s urban identity and supports the development of innovative, research-driven creative work.
For more information, visit Living Structures.
