Background: 

Dignity Cambodia for Gender Equality is an annual artistic and informative event begun in 2015, initiated by a documentary artist, Mona Simon.  Dignity Cambodia is an ongoing creative project of NGO-CEDAW using art as a vehicle to reveal the truth, raise awareness, create new perspectives on the topic of gender-based violence, promote women and girls ‘ empowerment and gender equality. NGO-CEDAW sponsors artists in commissioning artist work up to USD1,000 to create unique projects, using their own tools and imagination, talents, and ideas to create artwork as a reflection on the topics of gender-based violence and promote gender equality. It should be noted that the Dignity Cambodia is held annually to contribute to the celebration of the 16-Day of Activism Against Gender-based violence and International Human Rights Day, which will be held between November to December. 

Vart Van, a freelance professional makeup artist, singer, actor, and model, has created a facial painting and video project portraying the experiences of survivors after enduring violence. The Artwork, called “Freedom of Darkness” captures one of the darkest moments of their lives, reflecting on how society and people can at times be unpredictable and unkind. The project emphasizes the need for greater consideration and care, reminding us of our duty to protect victims, especially those without the voice or power to escape violence and abuse. It highlights the reality that many of these victims are women, calling for collective action to support and empower them.

 

Watch face painting video: https://youtu.be/nDDdRTLtkmI

Watch the short video of the event: https://youtu.be/-vari_Qiq8o