For our Art issue, we invited artists from Singapore and the Asian region to ponder the questions surrounding creativity, inspiration and purpose in today’s world. Here, we speak to Svay Sareth from Cambodia, represented by Richard Koh Fine Art.
What would you say are the best things about being an artist today?
For me, life as an artist is not just a profession but also a responsibility for the preservation and development of art and culture.
What are the biggest challenges facing the art world now?
During this period, the world is suffering from a severe crisis caused by superpowers, wars, trade, technology, the war in Israel, the Red Sea crisis… The art market cannot compete, but it has also been indirectly impacted. Furthermore, funds to support art projects and art exhibitions across the world have been cut back. During these times, collectors are wary of investing in art. I have taken a break from my creativity and turned to other projects, and I hope to feel inspired again soon.
How should one approach contemporary art?
No specific formula can tell you how to get into contemporary art. Art comes naturally and is influenced by emotions, love, pain, provocation, and struggle. Artists are dedicated and responsible for attempting to evoke the spirit of their artworks from the vastness of the universe. Maybe, this is a way to approach contemporary art. I’m not sure.
Why do you create art?
History, world wars, and the civil war of my country hurt me deeply. I was heavily influenced by the drama of the war, and I hope my artwork reflects the pain and fear. My expressions of art point to the war initiators, and I aim to represent the perspective of the refugees.I hope to document the pain and suffering of the victims.
How do you continually find inspiration? Who or what inspires you?
As my work is informed by painful topics such as war and suffering, sometimes I do not actively seek inspiration for my work. Pain is a powerful emotion and it can motivate you to create art that moves others. The desire to inspire change or create awareness on these topics is an artist’s responsibility and is what drives me to keep creating.
How do you stay true to who you are as an artist?
The act of constantly creating, and bearing in mind that a lot of sacrifices were made to inform my work, brings me much joy, and drives my creative process.
What’s something you would like to explore next?
With the belief that art is healing, and that it is a freedom of expression, I am looking for more opportunities to mentor young artists, such as teaching art and collaborating on art projects about decolonisation, oppression, and the impact of war. I hope that my artwork amplifies awareness of the atrocities that are happening in Ukraine and Gaza, and I hope my future works continue to be informed by what is happening around the world.
PHOTOGRAPHY JAYA KHIDIR