The Cambodian Krama

The krama—a traditional checkered Cambodian scarf—is both an everyday tool and a profound cultural symbol. Worn around the neck, head, or waist, it serves countless purposes: carrying babies, wiping sweat, providing shade, or transporting goods. Its versatility speaks not only to its practicality but also to its deep place in Cambodian life. More than just cloth, the krama embodies the Khmer spirit of survival, resilience, and connection across time and place.

Through portraits and oral history interviews with Cambodians in Providence, Lowell, and nearby cities, I am exploring how the krama continues to live on in memory, story, and practice. Elders recall its daily uses from the past, while younger generations are reclaiming it both as a link to heritage and as a fashion statement—styling it in new, creative ways that express identity and pride. Together, their perspectives reveal that the krama is more than fabric—it is a living thread binding generations.

Installations:
The Cambodian National Heritage Museum (May, 2026)