Aung Kyi Soe

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Born in Magway Region on October 1st, 1979, Aung Kyi Soe's journey into the world of art began with humble roots. Learning the ropes of artistic expression from mentors like D. Aung Thein and Aung Thin Oo, he gradually honed his skills in both traditional art and modern photography.

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The bustling streets of Yangon beckoned to Aung Kyi Soe in 2003, when he was just 24 years old. Moving to the heart of Myanmar's commercial hub, he found himself entangled in a complex relationship with the city. Through his paintings, he captured the dichotomy of Yangon's evolution – the clash between heritage and modernity, tradition and technology, and the tensions simmering beneath the surface.

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In 2013, Aung Kyi Soe unveiled his debut solo exhibition, titled 'Electronic City'. Through his artwork, he delved into the interconnectedness of humanity and nature, emphasizing the primacy of mental growth over material progress. He urged viewers to recognize that true transformation stems not from outward changes, but from inner enlightenment.

Reflecting on Yangon's cultural identity, Aung Kyi Soe remarked, "The essence of the city remains obscured, clinging to its old scent." He believed that genuine change begins within individuals, challenging them to break free from the shackles of outdated beliefs and behaviors.

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With his second solo show in 2014, 'Traveling With Black Sheep', Aung Kyi Soe celebrated diversity as a source of beauty and strength. Rejecting the notion of conformity, he championed the uniqueness of every individual, proclaiming, "Our differences are not burdens, but blessings."

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In his poignant 'Bullfight' series, Aung Kyi Soe shed light on the plight of innocent civilians caught in the crossfire of conflict. Drawing inspiration from a Burmese proverb, he called for an end to the cycle of violence that ensnares the most vulnerable among us.

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One of his crows series, 'Living with Crows', serves as a haunting commentary on the challenges of contemporary society. Aung Kyi Soe likened the relentless pace of modern life to a murder of crows, evoking a sense of foreboding and urgency.

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Aung Kyi Soe's evocative artwork has graced galleries both at home and abroad, from Singapore and Hong Kong to Taiwan and the United States. Today, his captivating creations find a home at the Nawaday Tharlar Gallery, where they continue to inspire and provoke contemplation.