My name is Cheerted Keo, but I create under the name RYYSA—a word that means roots in Khmer. What started as a personal art project has grown into a lifelong journey of reconnecting with my heritage, exploring identity, and bridging cultures through art.

Born in a refugee camp and raised in the Netherlands, I have always lived between worlds. Drawing became my refuge—a space where I could make sense of my experiences and express what words could not. Art opened doors, created opportunities, and gave me a voice when I needed one the most.

Now, back in Cambodia, my work is a reflection of that journey. I explore the duality of identities, blending Cambodia’s deep-rooted traditions with modern influences. Through my art, I bring together the old and the new—the grace of Apsara dancers with the raw energy of city life, the serenity of monks with the chaos of street markets. More than just visuals, my work tells stories that are often overlooked, inviting the world to see Cambodia not just as a place of history, but as a living, evolving culture.

For too long, Cambodia has been defined by its painful past: genocide, corruption, poverty. While these struggles are part of our story, they do not define us. I choose to focus on our resilience, creativity, and the beauty that often goes unseen.

Through murals, illustrations, and storytelling, my goal is to share this perspective with the world. Southeast Asia is a rich tapestry of cultures, histories, and traditions. Though each country has its own identity, we are more connected than we are different. I hope my work sparks conversations, bridges cultural gaps, and reminds us of our shared humanity.