From Stone to Stardom: Cambodia’s Artisans Make a Global Mark

Artisans Angkor

A luxury collaboration breathes new life into ancient Khmer craft

A Global Stage for Forgotten Hands

In the quiet workshops of Siem Reap, Cambodia’s cultural soul has been reborn. What was once a fading tradition is now in the global spotlight, thanks to a remarkable collaboration between renowned Italian luxury brand BVLGARI and a group of Khmer artisans. These humble craftspeople, many of whom had never heard of the brand—or the celebrities who attended its private event—were commissioned to handcraft pedestals for a prestigious jewelry showcase.

Displayed in Siem Reap before an audience of high-net-worth individuals and international guests, the jewelry collection rested on pedestals that told a deeper story. Each was created using materials symbolic of Cambodia’s cultural depth: pink sandstone reminiscent of Banteay Srei’s ancient temples, grey sandstone echoing classical Khmer sculpture, and red volcanic lava stone—an emblem of resilience.

Artisans Angkor: Preserving Heritage, Empowering Communities

At the heart of this collaboration is Artisans Angkor, a social enterprise that has been central to preserving Cambodia’s traditional craftsmanship. Before the pandemic, it employed over 1,000 artisans, many of them women, whose skills had been handed down through generations. When global travel came to a halt, the workforce dwindled to just 40 master artisans who continued vital restoration work at temples in Siem Reap.

Today, Artisans Angkor employs around 450 people—an encouraging rebound made possible by a group of Cambodian businessmen determined to preserve this cultural legacy. Under their guidance, the organisation has renewed its mission to bring Khmer craftsmanship to the world, one masterpiece at a time.

A New Vision with Ancient Roots

Artisans Angkor

Leading this revival is Kay Lot, Managing Director of Artisans Angkor. Once the COO of a major telecom company and a leader in finance, Kay Lot now channels his experience into cultural preservation. His goal is clear: to shine a global spotlight on Khmer artisanship and ensure its survival for generations to come.

The BVLGARI collaboration has offered a glimpse of what’s possible—elevating ancient skills to the global stage, celebrating Cambodia’s artistic heritage, and restoring pride within the local community. The pedestals may have held precious jewels, but it was the artistry beneath them that truly sparkled.

As Cambodia opens its arms once again to the world, initiatives like this remind us that its greatest treasures aren’t hidden in temples, but in the hands of its people.

Discover more about Artisans Angkor at
www.artisansangkor.com

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