Don’t Get Under My Skin

If there's one thing true but scary in the world, it is this. Give people enough time, and they will get used to even the worst dictators. In fact, it will become the new normal.

"Don't Get Under My Skin" is a powerful commentary on the short shelf life of the public's memory. Done in a Pop Art reminiscent of Roy Lichtenstein's comical work, this painting serves as a warning to the public. Don't allow the new militia regime to get under your skin – so deeply embedded that you think it has always been a part of you.

The artwork's use of conversation and its bright, vivid colours serves to tell the viewer that appearances aren't everything. There is nothing normal about the new government regime. Citizens must use tools like social media, publications and organised protests to remember the existence of the military's top puppeteers. It is this remembering that will ignite revolutions, helping oppressed countries wrest back power from the dictatorial oppressors.

Aung Khant

“What I can say about my artist life is an alternation of Nietzschean Apollonian and Dionysian phases with a nihilist twist which means I’m a great admirer of Rick Sanchez’s “Wubba lubba dub dub!” and Jordan Peterson’s debates on free speech, which represent my view about the current Burmese art scene”, Aung Khant.

Colourful and animated imagery created with striking contrasts and rebellious motifs, Khant’s artworks are characterised by comical elements and styles inspired by Kerby Rosanes, Keith Haring and Jean DuBuffet. His activist artworks embody his personal experience during the coup, his diverse life philosophies and a nostalgic collection of Burmese comics, horror books and video games from his childhood.

Aung Khant started “doodling” during his university years driven by his exhaustion about traditional painting methods. His doodles were quite popular at that time among young people for their extremely complex structures. He also worked with multiple local clothing brands and organisations with his design.

Graduated from University of Arts and Culture Yangon with B.A. in Painting, he made the first solo show in Yangon during the third year of university. Being a full time arts teacher, he was a passionate art educator. He co-founded an artist organization called “JINN” where he wrote educational pieces about modern and contemporary art. He also volunteered to teach arts in rehabilitation centres and monasteries.

Based on our agreement with the artist, 15% of the pre-VAT price excluding frames will be donated to support the social movement. Donation will be given to the National Unity Government of Myanmar ("NUG") Campaign UK.