What inspired the exhibition?
Myanmar has long been a closed society. That’s why the outside world doesn’t know if there is contemporary art in Myanmar or not. Some people think the art scene in Myanmar is still traditional. That’s not true. While we have a strong traditional art community, some artists are practicing contemporary art. But for those contemporary artists, the opportunity to exhibit their works outside the country is scarce.

What can we expect to see in this experimental showcase?
You can see how Myanmar’s artists practice contemporary art under scrutiny. It’s an introduction of Myanmar contemporary art to the world. 

How has the the art scene in Burma evolved since the 90s?
In those days, less than five artists practiced contemporary art. But now we have around 20 contemporary artists in Myanmar whose works are becoming more conceptual and reflective with an experimental edge.

How is the new generation of Burmese artists different from the older generation?
Outburst, escapology and emotionalism are popular themes amongst the early generations of Myanmar artists. The younger generation has become more and more conceptual: calm, simple, concrete and interactive. This new generation emerged after 2000.

What is life like for progressive Burmese artists who live in Burma?
An artist’s life is the same everywhere—not very sustainable economically. They have to do other jobs. So far we haven’t got a strong market for contemporary art. Space is also an issue. There is no art museum in Myanmar, no art center or art space. But a few so-called art centers or art spaces have appeared over recent years.

You’ve done showcases in many countries. What distinguishes Burmese art?
In Myanmar, we don’t really have community-based art projects. Myanmar artists are more into general issues than handling specific issues like politics, or economy. One reason for not being focused on issues like politics is that there are risks, threats and insecurity—you can be arrested. You can’t even criticize society in some cases.

Can these art pieces be exhibited in Burma? Or do they face censorship from the authorities?
Some have already been shown inside Myanmar. These pieces talk about more than politics—there are many themes or subject matters in them. But you never know what the authorities will read into art pieces.