Meta House: A Living Story of Cultural Connections & Art
Meta House – located in Cambodia’s Capital – is proving a unique center of creativity and cultural exchange, thanks to its founder German filmmaker Nico Mesterharm. Established in 2007, this independent art center has become Cambodia’s oldest of its kind! Naturally, we had to sit down with Nico and find out what this unique blend of art, education, social engagement, and hospitality, is all about!
Where the story began
Nico, who came to Cambodia in 2000 as a tourist, began to direct and produce documentaries for European TV stations in 2001. “I set up the European Cultural Center Meta House Phnom Penh in 2007,” he explains, “which is now the country’s oldest independent art center.” Today, he continues to lead the center as its director and lead programmer, fostering a welcoming environment that supports local artists and filmmakers.
Celebrating its 18th anniversary, Meta House features a diverse range of facilities, including an indoor gallery, an open-air stage, a multimedia library, a restaurant, and a German language school operated by their partner, the Goethe-Institut. “Through exhibitions, film screenings, workshops, community-based projects, artist exchange programs, and by fostering links with universities, galleries, and other non-governmental organizations, we actively support local artists and filmmakers and promote the development of Cambodia’s young contemporary arts and media scene,” Nico shares.
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The dream for Meta House is to continue expanding its reach, with plans for upcoming events that will further enhance Cambodia’s artistic landscape. Community involvement is at the forefront, as Nico invites community members to participate at all levels.
Unique Aspects and Community Impact
Nico reflects on what he loves most about his work: “Being able to work with Cambodia’s young generation; learning new things each day in the framework of our intercultural work.” This commitment to integrity, ethics, and the power of art as a vehicle for social change sets Meta House apart. In today’s world, where social, humanitarian, political, and environmental challenges abound, artists play a crucial role in bringing these issues to public attention.
“Meta House is a cultural lab for social change; a creative home to generate a culture that moves people,” he explains. Through outreach programs and collaborations with schools, universities, and NGOs, Meta House has reached over 500,000 students, introducing educational theater into learning facilities nationwide.
Embracing Cambodia
For Nico, living in Cambodia for 23 years has made it his home. “I am very happy to have been able to witness Cambodia’s development from a poor country to one of the region’s emerging ‘tigers,’” he says, reflecting on his deep connection to the country.
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Meta House invites everyone to experience the richness of Cambodia’s cultural heritage. With free events, diverse exhibitions, and a welcoming atmosphere, it offers a unique opportunity to engage with the local arts scene. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Meta House is a cultural oasis waiting to be explored.
For more information about upcoming events and programs, visit Meta House at #48, Street 228, Phnom Penh, or call 023-218987. Join the movement and become part of this vibrant community!
How can you find Meta House in Phnom Penh?
Location: Meta House Phnom Penh, #48, 12207 Street 228, Phnom Penh
Contac: Tel 023 – 218987
Opening hours: Daily from 10am to 10pm.
Events Tuesday to Sunday, 7,30pm
More info on our FB page: https://www.facebook.com/MetaHousePhnomPenh
 | Cambodia |
 | http://www.meta-house.com/ |
 | +855 10 312 333 |
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Author: Tom Starkey
Tom Starkey is an International Development graduate from Sussex University with 12-years of experience across 4 continents, Tom's goal is that he wants to showcase his love for Cambodia, where he lives, works and now happily calls home.
