RANGOON — He is not only well known for his lifelong involvement in Burma’s democracy movement, but also for his artistic nature. Among his admirers, Min Ko Naing, one of the most prominent former student leaders of 88 Generation Peace and Open Society, is a writer, painter, poet and musician, too.
After his literature debut with a novel two years ago, the 51-year-old artist had his first solo art show this week. His paintings accompanied the launch of a Burmese translation of former Czech Republic president Vaclav Havel’s book “The Pizh’ Duks” at 65 Gallery in Rangoon. Min Ko Naing produced illustrations for the Burmese translation of the children’s book.
The public were able to see 15 of his paintings at the launch, including some that he worked on during his time in prison.
“I grew up in a family of art so that I knew very well that it’s not easy to become an artist,” he said.
“It’s not only how you paint that matters, but also to what extent people accept your art is important,” Min Ko Naing said.
