In addition to being esteemed for its exquisite cuisine, the Topaz restaurant in Phnom Penh is also celebrated for its elegant ambience. Of notable mention is the establishment’s gardens, where an impressive statue of a bull, crafted from recycled metal, commands attention.
The AKs in the art of peace
Vanndy Ou (born 1977, Kandal province) studied at the Royal University of Fine Arts, graduating with a degree in sculpture in 2005. From 2003 to 2005, he was an integral member of the Peace Art Project Cambodia, an initiative in which he acquired expertise in metalwork and employed AK-47s to transform them into sculptures symbolising peace.
These distinctive sculptures ingeniously transform the famous assault rifle into representations of Cambodia’s traditional emblem, the elephant, a creature of such monumental importance in the construction of Angkor Wat.
Subsequent to his involvement with the Peace Art Project Cambodia, Vanndy made contributions to a number of other initiatives, including the creation of a compelling Naga monument crafted from small arms.He then broadened his artistic scope by studying contemporary stone sculpture with Krousar Selapak, a dynamic collective of artists colloquially known as the “art family”.
However, in 2009, with the support of restorers and government bodies, he resumed his artistic activities, focusing on the production of larger, more impressive sculptures. Subsequently, his innovative sculptures, crafted from scrap metal, have been showcased in a multitude of venues, garnering admiration and acclaim.
One of Vanndy’s most notable achievements was the sale of his impressive statue of an ox you can see in Topaz gardens. In reflecting on this accomplishment, he offers gratitude to those who have not only acquired his work but also facilitated its promotion:
“ It is not a common occurrence for an artist’s creation to be situated in a distinguished location. I am gratified by this recognition.”
In addition, Mr Vanndy draws attention to a notable project comprising a 6-metre-high, 5-tonne statue of the Goddess of Peace and Development, situated in Battambang and crafted from recycled military materials.
Additionally, he highlights the presence of a substantial copper statue, exceeding two metres in height, in Sihanoukville. He expresses gratitude for the substantial support he has received from business leaders and government officials who appreciate and encourage the promotion of Cambodian art, particularly his unique approach to using recycled materials.
“Many individuals who have observed my previous endeavours, such as the ox sculptures, have expressed interest and even commissioned additional pieces because they appreciate the art,” he states.
In addition to his recent Hanuman sculptures, Vanndy has set his sights on a new creation linked to Khmer martial arts. This forthcoming piece, a robust Khmer boxer standing over two metres tall, will continue his unique approach of fashioning striking sculptures from recycled metal.
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