Phnom Penh’s floating art project, “The Boat,” saw its first public visitors on Saturday afternoon, when 24 people joined project co-founders Dana Langlois and Alexis de Suremain aboard the 6,000-square-meter structure.
Launched in October, the project seeks to transform a decrepit, abandoned floating hotel moored on the Tonle Sap river into an art hub, turning its six floors and four terraces into multiple exhibition spaces, artist studios, restaurants and bars.
“They were all very positive, very enthusiastic,” Mr. de Suremain said of those attending the first of four Saturday afternoon visits scheduled for the coming weeks.
“Most of the time, they didn’t expect such a big space, and are positively surprised by the very good conditions of some floors.”
The project’s crowdfunding campaign aims to raise $40,000 for renovations—including installing electricity and water, and adding safety features.
“Without funds, there will be no floating art center,” Mr. de Suremain said.
