Pop Monk

"Pop Monk" questions the role of spiritual leaders in an era that has thrived on violence. It suggests that while Monks are integral parts of the Burmese rural life, they should not be relied upon for reforming the nation.

Monks have been a core part of Myanmar's culture and "survival mechanism" especially for the rural population. Monasteries have always been a safe haven for the population in the midst of disasters such as the great flood in 2018. They also led the Saffron Revolution in 2007, despite being cracked down by the Junta. However, recently, many prominent monk figures such as Ashin Nyanissara and Dhamma Sami have pledged alliance with the Junta. Monks are being considered a weak tool for national reform by an increasing number of people.

This artwork tries to envision a new role for monks in Myanmar. Using a style that reminds us of Roy Lichtenstein's iconic comics with its speech bubble, it questions the viewers if they believe the power of monkhood will save the country from harm.

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.