Growing up in the countryside, MIL Kosal barely saw any opportunities ahead. But with a deep passion for art, he pursued his dream of becoming an animator at Phare Ponleu Selpak’s Visual and Applied Arts School (VAAS). Today, he’s a senior animator at Phare Creative Studio (PCS), telling powerful stories through animations that make a real impact on communities.
Kosal’s journey is one to watch. Let’s dive into how he got started, the challenges he’s faced, and the amazing things he’s accomplished along the way.
Could you introduce yourself and tell us what you do at Phare Creative Studio?
I’m Kosal, a second-generation animator at Visual and Applied Arts School and a graduate of the Class of 2017. I began studying animation in 2014 with a full-tuition scholarship, incurring no costs throughout the years. I also received additional benefits, including a lunch program and annual school materials from the social support team of Phare Ponleu Selpak.
I joined Phare Creative Studio in 2018, specializing in character design and motion to bring stories to life. In addition to that, I assist my creative team on media projects, including video, graphic design, illustration, and sound design, to create impactful awareness-raising content.
Photo credit: Supplied
How did you first hear about Phare Ponleu Selpak?
Growing up in the countryside, I was quite familiar with Phare even before the establishment of the Visual and Applied Arts School about the art programs they offered. I used to learn drawing there intermittently, and when VAAS launched its vocational programs, I knew it was the opportunity I’ve been looking for to pursue my dream in animation.
What’s your favorite memory from your time at Phare Ponleu Selpak?
One of my favorite memories was participating in a photography workshop focused on salt printing, taught by Emily, a foreign instructor. The class was unique and enjoyable, with people from diverse backgrounds sharing experiences and learning together. It was a great chance to try something new while building connections with my classmates.
Not only that, but VAAS also regularly held interesting workshops facilitated by both foreigners and Khmer. They were informative, but they sometimes made it challenging for me to submit my homework on time.
Photo credit: Supplied
What’s your favorite memory from your time at Phare Ponleu Selpak?
One of my favorite memories was participating in a photography workshop focused on salt printing, taught by Emily, a foreign instructor. The class was unique and enjoyable, with people from diverse backgrounds sharing experiences and learning together. It was a great chance to try something new while building connections with my classmates.
Not only that, but VAAS also regularly held interesting workshops facilitated by both foreigners and Khmer. They were informative, but they sometimes made it challenging for me to submit my homework on time.
Did you work anywhere else after graduation, or did you join PCS right after?
After graduation, I completed my first internship at Sok Sabike, a bicycle tour agency in Battambang. Shortly after, I joined Phare Creative Studio. I first heard about Phare Creative Studio while studying at VAAS, as they had an office within the school. When they began recruiting, I saw it as a great opportunity. After graduating, I applied, eager to contribute my skills to the company.
What’s been your favorite project to work on at PCS?
One of my favorite projects was the “Khmer New Year” animation titled បួងសួង (Make a Wish!), which was released in 2023. It was a challenging but rewarding experience. We had to create motions frame by frame, which required a lot of research into the characters, their stories, and how they would be represented. The project was not just a creative challenge but also a way to promote social values through our art.
Photo credit: MIL Kosal
Have you faced any challenges in your career as a Cambodian artist? How did PPS and PCS help?
As a student, I struggled with time management, juggling multiple assignments from different teachers. But those challenges helped me develop discipline and better work habits. I would be punished extra if I submitted it late, which eventually helped me develop good time management habits.
And as an animator, one challenge I often face is working with clients who request multiple changes to a project. This can be frustrating at times, but my manager and team at PCS are always supportive, offering advice on how to manage the workflow and adapt to client needs. Phare Ponleu Selpak and PCS have played an important role in building my foundation and supporting my professional growth, allowing me to handle these challenges effectively.
What projects are you currently working on at PCS?
Right now, I’m working on animating character motions for the WHO Cambodia project on ‘Bird Flu’ awareness. It’s a detailed process, but it’s really satisfying to see everything come together and bring the story to life! It’s manageable for me, as we work as a team, each handling our own parts of the project.
Photo credit:Supplied
Any advice for other Phare students or alumni?
My advice to other students and alumni is to stay focused on your passions and continue learning. Learning English is especially important; it can open doors to a great of global opportunities and resources. For recent graduates, I encourage you to face challenges head-on with confidence. Keep pushing forward, and good job opportunities will follow.
Anything else you’d like to add or share?
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Phare Ponleu Selpak and Phare Creative Studio for the opportunity to grow as an artist. I appreciate my instructors who have shaped my artistic journey. The support from both teams has been significant, and I’m eager to contribute to the future of Cambodian arts.
I hope PCS and PPS continue their collaboration to support the development of new artists and projects. Specifically, offering more internships will introduce fresh ideas and skills, while we can provide the necessary guidance.
I look forward to seeing more Cambodian artists receive the recognition they deserve, both locally and internationally.
In Conclusion
Kosal’s journey is just one example of how Phare Ponleu Selpak empowers young artists. By providing access to quality education and professional opportunities, Phare continues to transform lives through the arts. As an animator, he continues to inspire those around him and plays a key role in shaping the future of Cambodian art through his work at Phare Creative Studio.
Join us in empowering Cambodian children and youth by nurturing their futures through art at Phare Ponleu Selpak.
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