Conflicted Cambodian Paintings by Andrew Hem

Just take one look at Andrew Hem's introspective, otherworldly paintings and you'll be able tell that they have a deeper meaning. Hem was born during his parents' flight from Cambodia in the wake of the Khmer Rouge genocide. He grew up poised in the balance between two cultures – the gentle animistic society of his Khmer ancestors, and the dynamic urban arts of the tough Los Angeles neighborhood where his family eventually came to rest. Working in gouache, oil and acrylic, Hem creates richly textured narratives in a vivid palette of twilight blues, swaths of deep red, and splashes of golden light.

Andrew Hem

Eugene Kim

Eugene Kim is the Editor-in-Chief of My Modern Met. In May, 2008, he co-founded the website to create one big city that celebrates creative ideas. His mission is to promote a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.
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