However, if you desire something more unique, perhaps a custom order or a finely finished reminder of the Angkor temples, take the time to visit Les Chantier-écoles de Siem Reap.
| ARTS AND CRAFTS |
STUDENTS CARVE CAREERS IN TRADITION
| Fine carving of reliefs
and sculptures is a Khmer tradition abundantly demonstrated at the temples surrounding
Siem Reap. Today, too, it is easy to find nicely wrought versions of apsaras, Bhudda or
Jayavarman heads for a few dollars in most markets. However, if you desire something more unique, perhaps a custom order or a finely finished reminder of the Angkor temples, take the time to visit Les Chantier-écoles de Siem Reap.
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Funded jointly by the Ministry of Youth and Sport and la Ligue française d’Enseignement et Education Permanent, Ecole-Chantier came into existence in 1992. Its mission is to keep traditional skills alive by teaching them to talented apprentices. Those fortunate youngsters who make the rigorous selection process then study at the facility for a year or more, developing skills to either support themselves back in their rural environment, or to stay on to become masters of their discipline.
| Head of design is Theam Ml, a
Paris-trained Cambodian artist whose restrained good taste and desire for quality and
uniqueness are evident in his students’ finished work. Old skills are kept vital by
adaptation to new designs and functions. Skills neglected or forgotten during
Cambodia’s decades of upheaval are being rediscovered and incorporated into the art
produced here.
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Visitors are welcome at the school, which is located on a quiet lane behind the night market. Classes are held in a series of lofty ceilinged ateliers arranged about a grassy open space. Students can be seen pursuing their vocations in wood and stone carving as well as fine building crafts such as carpentry, masonry and tile work.
To see silk production from mulberry bush to lustrous fabric, ask for a pass to visit the training facility at Poeuk. (See The Magic of Silk.)
There is a small shop with finished work for sale. Custom orders can be commissioned and samples of rare woods and stone are displayed for customers to make their selections. Packing and shipment overseas are also available.
