The Cambodian Journal

The Cambodian Journal is a book of drawings that traces artist Valentina DuBasky's journey in Cambodia between 1994, after the cease fire ended the long civil war and established a fragile democracy, and the first Cambodian National Elections in 1998. It is a journey taken among survivors of the Khmer Rouge genocide that claimed over a million and a half lives. Through her artwork, DuBasky bears witness to both the trauma of war and the journey of recovery. The drawings are inspired by Cambodians who shared their stories and by encounters with remarkable people whose efforts make a difference. The book includes drawings that reflect on briefings, describe fact-finding trips to the field, record observations of daily life and reflect on the DuBasky's personal experiences in Phnom Penh and the countryside. As the Cambodian people rebuild their shattered communities, the artist discovers the resiliency of the human spirit under extraordinary circumstances and the capacity of art to offer new ways of seeing and understanding. 34 color plates. "Her personal interest in human rights was the driving force behind the work...providing insight into the strong will of Cambodians to recover from tragedy." -Liz Ledden, Asia Life Phnom Penh June 2007