MCDERMOTT ON SAFARI

It’s a homecoming of grand proportions for one of Siem Reap’s most iconic photographers, John McDermott.

Next week, on May 14, he’ll attend the American launch of his self-published book, Elegy, in his birthplace, Little Rock, Arkansas.

The launch, together with an exhibition of photography featured in the book, will be held at the Boswell Mourot Gallery in Little Rock, which is co-owned by glassblower and sculptor Kyle Boswell, along with his business partner, psychologist and art critic Jon Mourot.

Later in the month the gallery will host an evening talk and slideshow session with McDermott about his latest venture in Africa.

The photographer travelled to Kenya and Tanzania, and as a result of that little journey he will, together with guide and wildlife expert Charles Babault, be leading photographic safaris from August 16 to 28 in Kenya. This will be followed by a safari in Tanzania next year.

SKAL LUNCHEON

Next Wednesday, May 12, Skål Siem Reap will hold a luncheon at the Abacus Garden Restaurant & Bar.

It’s a bring-your-own wine occasion, and seats must be booked in advance by contacting Abacus on 012 644 286.

Skål is a professional organisation of tourism leaders from around the world and is the only international group uniting all branches of the travel and tourism industry. It was founded in 1932 in Paris and today, Skål International has around 20,000 members in 480 clubs throughout 89 countries.

Siem Reap marketing man Charles Evans, who is organising the luncheon, said, “Unfortunately, for many reasons, the 2008 charter members of the Siem Reap Skål club have not held monthly meetings or staged events for a very long time. We intend to grow our membership immediately and begin holding monthly meetings.”

Skål is also seeking sponsors.