Knai Bang Chatt is to unveil Coral Kingdom by Sothea Thang, a monumental 5.7m tall sandstone sculpture serving as the first in its ART for Kep project showcasing the outstanding creativity of Cambodian artists.

ART for Kep is an initiative being spearheaded by Knai Bang Chatt to promote cultural tourism and support the Kingdom's artists while fostering environmental conservation.

A contemplative, thought-provoking piece by Sothea Thang, of architecture and engineering firm Bloom Architects, Coral Kingdom invites the viewer to reflect upon the beauty, vital importance and, despite its imposing scale, the fragility of nature.

“One of the key benefits of public art is its ability to educate people while also serving as a catalyst for creativity and imagination, and through ART for Kep we are creating an inspirational platform where local artists can unleash their full creativity.

"Sothea Thang – the talented artist behind Coral Kingdom – has captured the essence of our coastal region's beauty and the importance of preserving it for future generations.

"The expertise of Bloom Architects has brought this vision to life with their architectural and engineering prowess, with Coral Kingdom a perfect example of people working together to create this new inspiration for the community,” said Jef Moons, the CEO of Knai Bang Chatt.

And it is this spirit of "working together to create" that drives ART for Kep as it aims to establish connections while showcasing the beauty of the region and Cambodia's rich culture.

"Representing the beauty of the sea and our coastal region, and standing as a beacon of hope for environmental conservation, Coral Kingdom is also a symbol of unity and collaboration between local, provincial and national stakeholders.

"The objective is to establish a connection between corporate sponsorship and artistic performances, benefiting companies, artists, individuals and the region.

"Our goal is to showcase the beauty of our region and the rich culture of the Kingdom, as we motivate, educate and provide thrilling experiences for our fellow Cambodians," said Moons.

To that end, he added, the opportunity is being provided to become part of ART for Kep by contributing $5 for each "brick" used in Coral Kingdom through the www.artforkep.com website.

"We are also offering Standard and Bronze packages specifically designed for art enthusiasts on a smaller budget.

"Additionally, we have introduced Silver, Gold, and Platinum packages tailor-made for companies, with these premium options coming with extensive benefits exclusively catered to businesses.

"At Knai Bang Chatt, we always make it a point to give back not only to our supporters, but also to our sponsors," said Moons.

Over the coming months, ART for Kep will see a series of art installations, performances and events bring the town’s newly established waterfront to life.

"Coral Kingdom is only the first of a series of artworks that will help transform Kep into a cultural platform, with our goal to not only collaborate with other artists, but also across various art forms.

"ART for Kep should also serve as inspiration for music, movies, fashion, performing arts and dance – each of these forms evokes emotions, narrates stories, provides new means of expression and promotes cultural trends.

"Art enriches our culture, it can be a tourism attraction, it educates – and it can revitalise our region as it supports the local art community," said Moons.