On our last day of the trip we visited two artisan workshops in Siem Reap. The first one was especially impressive for its well thought-out design and organization. Designed to train people from the surrounding area in various trades, it also connects with a network of workshops in villages outside the city. We watched the artisans carving wood, sculpting animals and deities, working with copper and applying gold gilt.
We even got to try working with stone and a chisel ourselves. The tools are from repurposed motor bike parts.
Because it’s so loud in the workshop, the workers communicate via sign language. This has the additional benefit that deaf people can enter the training program to become skilled artisans.
The second workshop was more focused on candles, soap, woven goods, and spices/condiments. My favorite was amok spices (for the national dish - fish amok). Had to buy some because how could I not go home with amok?
Later we had lunch at a little restaurant in Siem Reap. Spring rolls, pumpkin soup, Khmer crepe (a lot like the Vietnamese dish banh xeo), a stir fried dish and a soup. Good end to our adventures.
