Paintings, Drawings & Sculpture
BURMA · 2021
Three-finger salute
I created this three-finger salute sculpture in 2021 to support the Spring Revolution in Burma (Myanmar). I produced a limited edition of ten, raising nearly $20,000 through auctions and sales. I donated all proceeds to support the people of Burma.
The Spring Revolution
On 1 February 2021, Myanmar’s military overthrew the elected civilian government. People across the country responded with peaceful protests and a Civil Disobedience Movement, calling for democracy and an end to military rule. The military met these protests with violence and arrests, and resistance later grew into a wider armed conflict.
The three-finger salute became a symbol of solidarity and resistance to military rule.
Further reading: UN report on the protests · The three-finger salute
Artist statement
I enjoy painting, drawing, and sculpting. I am especially interested in the human figure, portraits, and landscapes. I enjoy looking closely at people and nature, and trying to express what I see through shape, light, and color. I am drawn to impressionism and enjoy painting outdoors.
I was born in Rangoon, Burma, and am also known as Khin Maung Win. I began drawing as a child, and my interest in art grew during medical school. During that time, I had the chance to watch the late Burmese artist Paw Oo Thet paint.
I moved to the United States in 1983 and practiced medicine in Orange County from 1989 until my retirement. Art continues to be an important part of my life. I study through books, classes, and workshops, and learn by spending time drawing, painting, and working with sculpture.
I still have much to learn. Each piece gives me a chance to look more carefully, try something different, and understand a little more. When I look back at my older work, I notice many imperfections and things I would do differently now. I hope that being able to see these things means I am improving, little by little, as I grow older and continue to learn. The work I share here reflects what I have learned so far and what I am still exploring.