The S'Art Urban Art Festival is rapidly becoming a defining event for Battambang’s provincial capital, bridging the gap between the town’s rich artistic heritage and its dynamic modern identity.
With the upcoming edition slated for November 3–8, this biennial festival is more than just an artistic showcase – it’s a cultural movement that’s transforming the way people experience Cambodia.
Organised by Phare Ponleu Selpak, in partnership with the TUI Care Foundation, the festival is a vibrant celebration of urban art, featuring large-scale murals, live performances, exhibitions, workshops and the iconic Art Parade winding through Battambang’s heritage town.
This year’s theme, “Colourful Cultures”, expands the festival’s mission to foster cultural dialogue and inclusivity, bringing together Cambodian and international artists to create a global conversation through art.
Osman Khawaja, executive director at Phare Ponleu Selpak, emphasised how the festival plays a pivotal role in transforming public spaces into platforms for cultural expression.
“S'Art urban Arts Festival empowers artists to reclaim public spaces and transform the heritage neighborhood into canvases for cultural expression, which become an attraction for both locals and visitors alike,” he told The Post.
This transformation is visible in the murals scattered throughout the city, which not only beautify Battambang but also provide Instagram-worthy spots, attracting a growing number of visitors eager to explore the city’s unique charm.
Beyond the murals, the festival offers a chance to experience Cambodia from a fresh perspective, beyond the temples and the weight of the Khmer Rouge history.
“S’Art Urban Art Festival gives visitors the opportunity to connect with Cambodia’s evolving cultural identity,” said Khawaja.
“It creates a platform for meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and the sharing of diverse stories, making it an inclusive experience for both locals and tourists,” he added.
The festival also plays a crucial role in expanding Battambang’s visibility in the global tourism market.
By inviting regional and international artists to participate, the festival has turned the city into a rising destination for sustainable cultural tourism.
The influx of visitors not only enriches the cultural fabric of the city but also gives a much-needed boost to local businesses, creating a more robust economy.
Phare Ponleu Selpak’s commitment to Battambang extends beyond just this festival. With an annual rotation between the S'Art Urban Art Festival and the TiniTinou International Circus Festival, the organisation is working to establish the city as a key cultural tourism destination.
“Our goal is to make these festivals the reason international visitors book their flights to Cambodia,” said Khawaja.
“We want to showcase Cambodia’s diversity and talent, offering something beyond the traditional tourist experience,” he continued.
The murals from the festival beautify the city and in the current trend of seeking “Instagramable” spots, they bring more visitors to explore the streets of Battambang's heritage town, subsequently giving a boost to the small local businesses.
True to its mission of empowerment through the arts, Phare Ponleu Selpak continues to support young Cambodian talent through education and opportunity.
To support this mission, TUI Care Foundation has deepened its commitment by providing scholarships for 25 students at Phare Ponleu Selpak and support the upgrading of our performance training space.
These scholarships support young Cambodians in pursuing professional training in visual arts, music, dance, and theatre.
“We are thrilled to launch the S'Art Urban Art Festival with such incredible support from TUI Care Foundation and our partners,” said Khawaja.
With the upcoming 2025 edition of the S'Art Urban Art Festival, Battambang is poised to continue its journey as a cultural beacon, blending tradition and modernity, and offering an inspiring destination for travellers seeking an authentic, creative experience in Cambodia.
All pictures supplied.
