Artist U Hlaing Bwa was born in 1950 in Yangon, is a full-time artist who studied under the old master U Thein Han in the 1970s. His artistic style is characterized by bold brush strokes and creative color schemes, reminiscent of the European Impressionist style, with Monet as a significant source of inspiration. His artworks often depict the tranquil beauty of Myanmar, including scenic places like Bagan, the colorful Shan State, vibrant marketplaces and solitary women lost in contemplation.

Notably, U Hlaing Bwa frequently portrays his family and neighbors in his art, with his wife, sister-in-law and niece often serving as subjects. Over the years, he has painted a series of children as his nieces grew up, and he later focused on young ladies in rooms adorned with flowers, which has become one of his signature motifs.

Hlaing Bwa’s work has been exhibited extensively, both in Myanmar and abroad. His paintings were showcased in Myanmar from 1979 to 2000 and internationally in countries like China (1982), Australia (1990), Singapore and Thailand (1995), the USA (2003, 2004, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2012) and Indonesia (2007).

His artistic contributions are also recognized in books such as “Myanmar Painting: From Wroship to Self-imaging” (2006) and “Burmese Painting: A Linear and Lateral History” (2009).