Phnom Paint: Unleashing Creativity in Cambodia with Olga Shklyar
At the forefront of Cambodia’s burgeoning art scene is Phnom Paint, a vibrant space where creativity flows freely under the expert guidance of Olga Shklyar. With over two decades of experience, Olga has transformed her passion for art into a dynamic community that welcomes all—from complete beginners to seasoned artists—into the world of painting.
“I’ve been passionate about painting for over 20 years, and I’m lucky to say that my work and hobby are one and the same,” says Olga. Originally from Russia, she earned a Master’s degree in Fine Arts and worked as a university instructor before making Cambodia her home 11 years ago. It was here that the seeds for Phnom Paint were sown. “I noticed many adults wanted to learn painting but lacked formal knowledge, had little free time, and often felt insecure about their ability to succeed. They needed support and encouragement from like-minded individuals.”
Thus, Phnom Paint was born—not just as a workshop space but as a creative sanctuary where people from all walks of life come together to create. With a focus on providing high-quality instruction in an inviting atmosphere, Phnom Paint offers a range of workshops and courses, from landscape painting and portraiture to drawing and human anatomy. Whether you’re picking up a brush for the first time or looking to deepen your skills, Phnom Paint ensures there’s something for everyone. “It’s a wonderful way to disconnect from the daily routine, add some color to your life, and, of course, improve your artistic skills,” says Olga.
Beyond workshops, Phnom Paint is also a space for personal growth and community building. “My aim was to create a welcoming environment where anyone, regardless of their art background, could learn to create beautiful paintings,” Olga explains. This vision has been realized as Phnom Paint has expanded to offer corporate events, private lessons, and even multi-day workshops for those who wish to immerse themselves in the art world.
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The Phnom Paint community is diverse, with students ranging in age from five to 74. “Some attend private art sessions to dive deeper into specific subjects, while others join group art workshops,” Olga shares. One of the year’s highlights was an exhibition at Meta House, where both her own works and those of her students were displayed. “It was an amazing opportunity to see the level of the students’ work, interact with the artists, and learn how and why they created their pieces.”
What sets Phnom Paint apart is its emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility. “Phnom Paint has been operating for over five years now, and my vision remains the same: to make art accessible to everyone,” says Olga. Art enthusiasts of all levels are welcome, and the workshops offer the chance to explore various themes and techniques—from florals and landscapes to classic works inspired by artists like Van Gogh. Phnom Paint creates an atmosphere where every participant feels comfortable and confident, whether they’re seasoned painters or complete beginners.
A significant part of Phnom Paint’s mission is also giving back to the community. Through charity auctions and sponsorship of events supporting organizations like Animal Rescue Cambodia and Phnom Penh Animal Welfare Society (PPAWS), the workshops contribute to causes that are close to Olga’s heart. “Being both an artist and an art teacher allows me to create a unique atmosphere during my sessions,” she says, with philanthropy blending seamlessly into her creative endeavors. Her passion for portraiture even inspired a charitable project where commissions for pet portraits help support animal welfare initiatives.
Olga’s commitment to personal artistry shines through in every brushstroke. “An art teacher should be actively creating and be a skilled artist,” she believes. Known for her vibrant, realistic portraits that evoke emotion and capture the essence of her subjects, Olga frequently exhibits her work in both solo and collaborative shows, proving that she doesn’t just teach art—she lives it.
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As the art scene in Cambodia continues to grow, Phnom Paint is at the forefront of this artistic movement. “The art market in Cambodia, offering various workshops and services, is finally beginning to flourish, and I couldn’t be happier,” says Olga. With plans to expand workshops, courses, and regular exhibitions, Phnom Paint is set to make an even bigger impact on Cambodia’s cultural landscape.
For those looking to dive into the world of painting, whether through group workshops, private lessons, or by commissioning a custom piece, Phnom Paint offers a unique and fulfilling artistic journey. “If you’re interested in exploring your artistic side—whether through a private or group workshop, an art course, or by commissioning a custom painting—please don’t hesitate to contact Phnom Paint via Facebook. I’d love to help you start your creative journey!”
With Olga Shklyar at the helm, Phnom Paint promises to continue inspiring creativity, fostering community, and bringing art to everyone in Cambodia!
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 | https://www.cambodialifestyle.com |
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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.
