Message of Gratitude from Phloeun Prim, ED of CLA
As 2023 draws to a close, a year that marks the inspiring 25th anniversary of Cambodian Living Arts, we would like to take a moment to reflect and express our deepest gratitude.
Over the past quarter-century, CLA has grown from a grassroots initiative, established in 1998 by our founder, Arn Chorn-Pond. Our beginnings focused on preserving Cambodian traditional performing arts at risk of fading away. We actively sought surviving masters of the art and created a bridge between them and the younger generation. Through our efforts, over 1000 students across 13 provinces in Cambodia have benefited from art classes led by these masters.
Now, after a 25-year journey, we are proud to celebrate this milestone anniversary. We are thrilled to witness Arn’s dream come to fruition – a society enriched and transformed by the arts, a thriving arts sector, and generations contributing to societal development through art.
In conclusion of our 25th-anniversary celebrations, we organized a youth-led festival, “Seven Colours Festival,” highlighting the vital role of youth in society. This initiative was closely associated with CLA’s 25th-anniversary celebrations, which amplified youthful voices, promoted diversity through the arts, and increased awareness of gender equity, diversity, and inclusivity!
This incredible journey could not have been achieved without the unwavering support from each and every one of you – the artists, our partners, the ministries, our funders, our board of directors, and our dedicated individual supporters. You have all played an integral part in our mission to build a resilient arts ecosystem in Cambodia.
As we proceed into 2024, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude for your immense support, love, passion, and commitment. Your contributions have significantly enhanced our society through the arts.
On behalf of the entire CLA family, we wish you a Happy New Year!
Best Regards,
Phloeun