The festival
A platform for the possible.
Phnom Penh Design Festival brings together the brightest creative voices in Cambodia and beyond.
Why we gather
PHNOM PENH DESIGN FESTIVAL is the nannual celebration of creativity, innovation, and collaboration in Cambodia's growing creative landscape. Organized by Phnom Penh University of the Arts in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, the festival brings together artists, educators, and professionals to explore how design connects people, ideas, and communities.
Phnom Penh University of the Arts proudly hosted the inaugural Phnom Penh Design Festival in 2024, marking a major step forward in celebrating and advancing design in Cambodia.Following the 2024 theme Enlightened Expression, which explored the intersection of thought, art, and society, the 2n d Phnom Penh Design Festival took place from October 31 to November 2025, 2, under the theme Together.
The festival consists exhibitions, performances, workshops, and panel discussions, participants are invited to imagine how design can shape a more inclusive and inspiring future. The festival will also feature the 8 th International Art Competition, promoting arts education and nurturing creative expression from an early age.
Welcome to the Phnom Penh Design Festival.It is an honor to gather once again with our creative community to celebrate the role of design in Cambodia's growth and future.
The arts help us understand our shared identity. They allow us to honor our history while imagining what lies ahead. Design in particular reminds us that creativity is not separate from progress. It supports economic development, inspires innovation, and enhances the quality of everyday life. When we encourage young people to pursue creative learning, we give them the tools to shape industries, influence culture, and strengthen national pride.
The arts help us understand our shared identity. They allow us to honor our history while imagining what lies ahead. Design in particular reminds us that creativity is not separate from progress. It supports economic development, inspires innovation, and enhances the quality of everyday life. When we encourage young people to pursue creative learning, we give them the tools to shape industries, influence culture, and strengthen national pride.
This festival represents a commitment to raising standards in design education and expanding opportunities for talent to flourish. I am proud to see so many students, educators, and professionals working together to build a stronger creative economy for Cambodia. Thank you for joining us for this important celebration. I hope this festival encourages new partnerships, bold ideas, and a united vision for a creative and confident future.
CHAN HAE LEE
PRESIDENT, PHNOM PENH UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS
It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the 2nd Phnom Penh Design Festival. What began as a simple idea to give students a space to express their creativity has become a shared effort that connects artists, educators, professionals, and cultural partners in pursuit of a common creative vision.
At the heart of this festival is a belief that creativity is not a luxury. It is a driving force for growth, identity, and connection. When young people have the courage to express their ideas and the opportunities to develop their craft, they strengthen not only their own futures but also the future of our society.
At the heart of this festival is a belief that creativity is not a luxury. It is a driving force for growth, identity, and connection. When young people have the courage to express their ideas and the opportunities to develop their craft, they strengthen not only their own futures but also the future of our society.
The theme Together reflects the effort, collaboration, and shared passion that make this event possible. I am deeply grateful to every individual, organization, and supporter who has contributed their time, energy, and expertise.
I hope this festival inspires you, challenges you, and reminds you of the unique power of design to bring people together. Thank you for being part of this journey and for helping us build a more creative Cambodia.
Ahlin Min
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, PHNOM PENH DESIGN FESTIVAL