Travel and spirituality emerge as enduring themes in “Voices From The Golden Land,” an exhibition showcasing the works of Myanmar artists currently being held at the Kalakriti Art Gallery in Hyderabad. The exhibition features an array of paintings that capture individuals journeying on foot in search of serenity. These artistic representations illustrate spiritual voyages in Myanmar, a land known for its pagodas, and cast light on the sense of displacement experienced by those impacted by conflict. However, rather than adopting a somber tone, the artists bring forth the resilience and inner strength that drive people forward. Featured artists include Than Kyaw Htay, S. Moe Z, Win Zin, and Nay Hlaing Win, with the collection curated by Ivy Lin.
An exclusive Myanmar art exhibition is a rarity in Hyderabad. Curator Ivy Lin shared insights about this unique collaboration, revealing that she met Rekha Lahoti of Kalakriti Art Gallery at a conference in Singapore. “We started talking about art and realized our mutual admiration for Myanmar artwork. I expressed my desire for Burmese art to be acknowledged and appreciated by a larger audience since these artists seldom have platforms to showcase their talents globally,” Ivy Lin explained.
According to Ivy Lin, “Voices from the Golden Land” is a tribute to Myanmar’s rich culture, diverse ethnicities, traditions, and music. The featured artworks narrate tales of empathy, peace, and resilience.
One of the artists, S Moe Z, captures a monk in saffron robes walking through jungle precincts or towards distant pagodas in his paintings. The interplay of light and shadow becomes apparent upon closer inspection, with warm golden light intruding through the darkness, symbolizing optimism. This optimistic glow is a recurrent theme in Moe Z’s work.
Win Zin’s art adds a layer of mystery with his play of colors and textures.
. One of his highlighted works from the “Buddha Heritage” series portrays faith as a wellspring of strength for the people. His inspiration draws from his time at Mogok Vipassana Dhamma School during his period as a monk. In another series titled “Reviving Traditions,” percussion instruments take the spotlight, celebrating the significance of traditional music within Myanmar’s socio-cultural tapestry.
Through his “Silent” series, Than Kyaw Htay addresses the harsh realities of displacement and migration. His paintings feature individuals on foot with blurred pagodas on the horizon. In one poignant piece, displaced families, carrying minimal belongings, walk in search of a safer and more promising future. Htay’s work poignantly depicts the Rakhine people in transit, offering a visual prelude to future migrations.
The themes of hope amidst adversity resonate strongly in the works of both S Moe Z and Than Kyaw Htay. Ivy Lin underlines this, saying, “Than Kyaw Htay’s paintings depict migrants in hues of gold, suggesting the possibility of a brighter future.”
Artist Nay Hlaing Win also speaks to the theme of hope, emphasizing spiritual solace in his “Ethnic” series. He portrays the Chin tribes of Myanmar and their cultural heritage, highlighting the lifestyle of indigenous Chin hunters in the forest.
“Voices From The Golden Land” is scheduled to be on display at the Kalakriti Art Gallery in Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, from August 4 to September 5. The exhibition has not only brought Myanmar’s rich artistic culture to an Indian audience but has also wielded art as a medium to convey profound messages of hope, resilience, and cultural preservation amidst ongoing adversities.
This exhibition is a testament to the resilience of Myanmar’s people and the indomitable spirit of its artists. By showcasing their work, the Kalakriti Art Gallery has provided a much-needed platform for these voices from the golden land to be heard, appreciated, and understood. It serves as a reminder that even in times of conflict, art can become a powerful vehicle for hope and human connection.
