A photo-exhibition titled Som Tot Moy, by Gary Tyson and Chris Dixon, continues until February 5 at the Culture Club Gallery in Hong Kong. Taken from the Khmer language, the title means “one picture please”, a phrase used by the photographers to ask permission and gain the trust of subjects when seeking an up-close view of Cambodian lives.

Known for its temples and the Khmer Rouge killing fields, Cambodia is a fast-emerging, yet struggling, place. Its people show a resilience and happiness that disarms many tourists.

The photos on display capture the people's working lives at crab markets, boatyards and rice fields or show children begging at temples, digging for recyclable rubbish or selling photocopied books. The exhibition highlights the cycle of Cambodian life, from youngsters to seniors, and portrays the self-determination of individuals who show contentment in the face of adversity.

Before arriving in Asia, Tyson worked as a British Army photographer, including in conflict zones like Iraq, Kosovo, Bosnia, Sierra Leone and Northern Ireland. He had exclusive access to the princes William and Harry during their military training and has acted as an official photographer for the Queen.

Dixon has been a keen hobby-photographer since age 14. Having lived in Hong Kong for five years, he regained his passion for photography after years of corporate work.

Profits from the sales of photos will go to the CAMKIDS Charity (www.camkids.org) which helps Cambodian children who are poor or without parents. It also supports programs to strengthen vulnerable families and keep them together.

Culture Club Gallery
Central, Hong Kong

(January 21, 2011)

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A view of Cambodian children: content despite stern adversity.

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