Have you ever looked at a painting and immediately felt the urge to pack your bags?
Right now, there’s a fresh wave of creative energy flowing through Yangon. Organized by the Ministry of Hotels, Tourism and Culture of Myanmar in conjunction with the Mekong Tourism Forum 2026, the new “Art for Tourism” exhibition is using the soft power of visual arts to spark some serious wanderlust. If you’ve been searching for an excuse to rediscover the beauty of our own backyard, this is it.
Curated by travel consultant and independent art curator Jaffee Yee, this showcase isn’t just about pretty pictures—it’s an invitation to experience Myanmar as a form of “soft adventure travel”. The goal is to connect viewers emotionally to the country’s rich heritage and creative communities.
Imagine strolling through the gallery and getting lost in the golden, sweeping hues of Shwedagon Pagoda, or practically feeling the cool morning mist over Inle Lake and the ancient majesty of Bagan. The exhibition features iconic d
estinations like Mandalay Palace and Hpa An, brilliantly capturing the cultural landmarks that have long captivated travelers from around the globe.
Meet the Masters
The true magic of the exhibition lies in the distinct visions of its three featured contemporary watercolor artists:
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Aung Htet Lwin: This Yangon-based artist is a graduate of the National University of Arts and Culture. He has developed a distinctive artistic language that combines strong light and shadow to create moody, atmospheric urban landscapes.
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Sai Pyae Sone Aye: A celebrated leading figure who actively shapes the watercolor community. He is highly recognized for his deep mastery of the medium, beautifully capturing the vivid, breathtaking atmosphere of natural scenery and urban scenes.
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Arkar Myo: A Mandalay-born medical graduate who shifted his focus to mastering watercolor in 2015. As a self-taught artist, he perfectly balances outdoor en plein air sessions with detailed studio work.
Why Go Now
The exhibition already had a successful run at Pan Pacific Yangon earlier this month. But if you missed it, you are in luck! “Art for Tourism” is currently being hosted at the Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon until June 30th. Whether you are an art collector, a tourism professional, or just someone looking for a visually inspiring afternoon, the doors are open to the public.
The Need-to-Know Details
- What: “Art for Tourism” Exhibition.
- Current Location: Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon.
- Dates: 20–30 June 2026.
- Previous Location: Pan Pacific Yangon (15–18 June 2026).
- Featured Artists: Arkar Myo, Aung Htet Lwin, and Sai Pyae Sone Aye.
- Curator Contact: Jaffee Yee ([email protected])
Grab your favorite art-loving friend and go get inspired—just don’t blame us if you end up booking a one-way ticket to Bagan right after!
