A new exhibition about the architectural designs of Cambodian architect Vann Molyvann is showing at Phnom Penh’s International Airport and features a display of my feature portrait of Molyvann, published last year in the Asia Wall Street Journal.
Vann Molyvann, born in Kampot province in 1926, was appointed by Norodom Sihanouk in the 1960s to a series of governmental and academic postings and commissioned to design large scale public projects including the State Palace, National Theatre, National Sports Complex, state residences, ministries, housing developments and academic buildings.
In 18 years he produced over 80 works, which profoundly transformed Cambodia’s built environment.
The show presents five of his building designs and pays particular attention to how the buildings adapt modern materials and construction techniques to the culture, climate and built environment of Cambodia.
The documentation of this important collection of modern buildings is the work of The Vann Molyvann Project, a collaboration of students and architects from Cambodia and around the world.
The exhibition is organized by Space for Architecture and Manolis House, Phnom Penh.
Cambodia Airports, the concessionaire of Phnom Penh International Airport, made the following statement: “The airport is honored to welcome the exhibition showcasing the works of Cambodia’s most renowned architect. We are convinced that our passengers will learn more about Cambodia, its culture and its history through the legacy of Vann Molyvann.”
The exhibition runs until August.
Location: International Airport Phnom Penh, Departure Hall, Terminal 5
Support: International Airport Phnom Penh
Curator: Erin Gleeson
Project Management: Stefanie Irmer, Pagna Serey