Sawangwongse Yawnghwe explores Burmese exile and memory in Artes Mundi 11 biennial

From 24 October 2025 to 1 March 2026, Artes Mundi 11, the premier biennial contemporary art prize in the UK, will showcase the work of Sawangwongse Yawnghwe. His artistic creations delve into his heritage as a member of the Burmese royal family and his experiences of political exile, utilizing painting and installation to reinterpret both national narratives and personal stories. Born in a military camp for Shan rebels, Yawnghwe transforms elements from family history and political occurrences into his art. He addresses the discrepancies in historical accounts by juxtaposing Bama-centric stories with those of ethnic nationalities. The event will feature six global artists at the National Museum Cardiff and other locations, focusing on themes of displacement, memory, and the repercussions of political strife. Yawnghwe's recent exhibitions include the Berlin Biennale (2025) and Thailand Biennale (2023).