The exhibition took place at SEA Junction from 19 to 31 May, between 11 am and 7 pm, consists of drawings of Insein Prison by artist Maung Phoe. He was arrested along with his wife and son (who were released shortly afterwards) due to possessing materials considered prohibited and imprisoned in Insein Prison for six months from April to October 2021. In the exhibition, over 70 ink-drawings on all kinds of pieces of papers and selected fragments of his diary were on display to portray detention conditions. The sketches provided glimpses into crowded rooms, with rows of male inmates sleeping side-by-side or sitting together, attempting to pass the time, as well as scenes of them queuing to wash.

The exhibition “Portrait of Detention: Drawings of Insein Prison by Maung Phoe” was officially launched with a panel discussion titled “Transcending Prison Walls with Art,” at SEAJunction on 20 May 2023 at 5:30 pm

 

Photo credit: Lattapol Jirapathomsakul and Kelly Khin