Art exhibition celebrates 75 years of China-Myanmar diplomatic ties through brush, ink

The Star

05-06-2025

Paintings are displayed at an art gallery in Yangon, Myanmar, June 2, 2025. - Photo: Xinhua
YANGON: An art gallery in downtown Yangon has celebrated the 75th anniversary of China-Myanmar diplomatic relations with a unique exhibition blending Chinese and Myanmar cultures.
Showcasing everything from the iconic Shwedagon Pagoda to elegant Chinese calligraphy, the five-day exhibition was both a tribute and a testament to enduring friendship. It ran from May 31 to June 4.
Held at Artistic Space Art Gallery, the exhibition was organised by the Myanmar-China Calligraphy and Painting Association.
Paintings are displayed at an art gallery in Yangon, Myanmar, June 2, 2025. - Photo: Xinhua
It featured more than 50 pieces of paintings, as well as calligraphy works that reflected the intertwined heritage of the two nations.
"The goal is to bring together Myanmar-born Chinese and Myanmar artists to deepen cultural exchange and mutual learning," said U Maw Li Shwe, chairman of the association.
Chinese calligraphy works are displayed at an art gallery in Yangon, Myanmar, June 2, 2025. - Photo: Xinhua
"We also aim to strengthen the friendship between the two nations."
The exhibition included calligraphy and paintings by eight artists. All artworks are for sale, with proceeds going toward a Chinese calligraphy competition fund supporting Myanmar-born Chinese artists.
U Maw Li Shwe emphasized the enduring nature of the "Paukphaw" (fraternal) friendship between Myanmar and China. "We hope this relationship continues to grow and flourish," he said.
"In the future, we plan to host more cultural exchange programs with Myanmar-born Chinese people and local Myanmar people."
The event drew artists, students, and cultural enthusiasts alike. Among them was U Than Aung, 42, principal of the Eastern Language Business Center.
"I'm very happy to take part," he said. "This is a valuable opportunity for cultural exchange."
He collected four pieces from the exhibition, particularly admiring U Maw Li Shwe's ink paintings.
"The bamboo trees and orchids are beautifully done," he said, pointing at the bamboo trees and orchids artworks on the wall.
"They are fresh and refined, and truly expressive."
Chinese calligraphy works are displayed at an art gallery in Yangon, Myanmar, June 2, 2025. - Photo: Xinhua
"These kinds of exhibitions serve as cultural bridges," he added. "They help bring the people of China and Myanmar closer together."
Veteran Myanmar artist U Thike Oo, 75, also participated.
"We're showcasing works alongside Chinese artists," he said.
With a career spanning over five decades and nearly 200 paintings, he sees the exhibition as more than just an art event.
"This one feels special. It's about friendship."
U Kyi Oo, 59, a modern painter, also participated in the exhibition. "I'm showcasing modern pieces here.
"What I love most about Chinese culture is the food, especially Yunnan cuisine. For Chinese celebrations, I joined a Chinese New Year event last year."
The exhibition also resonated with younger visitors, like 20-year-old Thunn Naychi Soe, a student of U Maw Li Shwe.
"I came here to support my teacher. I especially love the Shwedagon Pagoda and bamboo tree paintings, as well as the calligraphy."
Born in Myanmar to a Chinese family, she said the event helped expand her cultural perspective.
"I used to focus only on Chinese traditions. This exhibition helped me appreciate Myanmar art more deeply."
She emphasized the importance of recognising and respecting cultural diversity. "Every culture should be valued equally.
Events like this help people truly feel and understand the richness of different cultures and heritages."
"China and Myanmar share many values," she added.
"We both honor family and respect our elders. These are the principles that are vital to any society," she said. - Xinhua