To ordinary people, paper pulp is just trash. But in the hands of Aung Myint, it can be anything—a bridegroom with a rose in his chest or a soldier covered in blood.
Likewise, home appliances such as irons, kettles, plates, and pots have become artistic items in his hands.
Aung Myint has been a part of Myanmar’s modern art movement since the 1970s, and his artwork has evolved over the decades to include abstract painting, installation, ceramic art and performance.
Known to many as the father of contemporary art in Myanmar, he is applauded for encouraging and inspiring many of Myanmar’s most well-respected artists and curators.
He is one of the pioneers of installation art in Myanmar and made a name for himself with his hit series “Mother and Child.”
He has showcased traditional Myanmar items like triangular brass gongs and flower vases in his showcases abroad.
For his most recent show, he took pulp from Thailand’s Chiang Mai and transformed it on canvas.
About the painting Bride’s, he said: “It is about my inspiration and creation. I put a pocket on a bridegroom and stuck a rose onto it.”
About Warrior’s Wear, he said: “The pulp is holey. I thought about what I could do with it. Then, I put red paint in the holes as I got the idea of a soldier shot and killed with bullet wounds.”
His art exhibition “Expedition” will be showcased at Myanm/art Art Gallery on Bogalayzay Street from September 8 to 18.
Artist San Min appreciates the exhibition’s installations. About a pot covered with barbed wire, he said: “You can’t touch it easily. If it were a normal pot, you could touch it easily, but with thorns, it discourages you from touching. I think this was his thought process.”
Aung Myint said that he is satisfied with his works at the exhibition.
There will be 13 paintings and seven installations at the exhibition, priced between US$1,000 and $10,000.
He has organized 16 solo exhibitions at home and abroad and participated in dozens of group art exhibitions.
