Preserving Khmer Heritage: Peanh Chhany's Dedication to Sbek Thom
Peanh Chhany has dedicated over fifteen years to preserving the traditional Khmer art of leather carving associated with Sbek Thom, shadow theater. Although sales have declined, he actively promotes fellow artists' work through the 'Traditional Khmer Shadow Theater' page on Facebook. Chhany continues his mission to support the arts, even as he supplements his income with other work.
Peanh Chhany, a dedicated artist based in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, has spent over fifteen years preserving the traditional Khmer art of leather carving, particularly related to Sbek Thom or shadow theater.
Despite declining sales in this traditional art form, Chhany remains committed to his craft, promoting the work of fellow artists via social media.
His journey began in Siem Reap, where he developed his skills in drawing and carving, driven by his passion for Khmer arts and the challenges faced by artists due to lack of support.
Chhany once sold carved leather paintings at the Toul Tompoung market, but high rents during the COVID-19 pandemic forced him to close shop.
To support other artists, he launched the 'Traditional Khmer Shadow Theater' Facebook page in 2022, increasing the visibility and sales of leather carvings.
Although online sales have recently slowed, Chhany continues to manage the platform while diversifying his income.
Some Cambodian government agencies have commissioned these artworks for interior decoration.
Despite declining sales in this traditional art form, Chhany remains committed to his craft, promoting the work of fellow artists via social media.
His journey began in Siem Reap, where he developed his skills in drawing and carving, driven by his passion for Khmer arts and the challenges faced by artists due to lack of support.
Chhany once sold carved leather paintings at the Toul Tompoung market, but high rents during the COVID-19 pandemic forced him to close shop.
To support other artists, he launched the 'Traditional Khmer Shadow Theater' Facebook page in 2022, increasing the visibility and sales of leather carvings.
Although online sales have recently slowed, Chhany continues to manage the platform while diversifying his income.
Some Cambodian government agencies have commissioned these artworks for interior decoration.
