Self-taught artist Yi Kakada has spent the past six years demonstrating his skills by painting on walls, fences and other public areas, often without getting paid.
Born in Battambang province, he lost both his parents at an early age. Now residing in Phnom Penh, Kakada, 22, says he had a strong desire to be an artist even at a young age.
Kakada mastered his craft with hands-on experience rather than proper training. He spent the past six years travelling to provinces and suburban areas seeking permission to paint murals on walls of buildings and fences.
He continues such projects because he wants to show that the artistic talent in Cambodia is comparable to that found in other countries.
He tells The Post: “I want to show that Cambodia has people who know how to paint quality murals on walls of houses and fences. It’s just not foreigners who have such talent. But what we lack is support and appreciation for such paintings.
“Plus, I have another goal. I want sponsors to support my career. I cannot independently support myself yet, especially because painting supplies are expensive. The murals I paint on public areas are all created with my own money.
“If possible, I would like a working space. But regardless of getting financial support, I will continue with my work. I will not abandon my project as I want people to know that Cambodia has artistic resources just like other countries.”
Read Pann Rethea’s full article on The Phnom Penh Post.
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