Ikon Gallery presents a groundbreaking solo exhibition by multidisciplinary artist Htein Lin, showcasing a comprehensive selection of works that span his remarkable career. This exhibition offers a poignant glimpse into the artist’s lifelong commitment to documenting human experiences in challenging times, particularly focusing on his time as a political prisoner in Myanmar from 1998 to 2004.
At the heart of the exhibition are over 45 works from Htein Lin’s 000235 series, named after his International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) number. These pieces, created during his imprisonment, demonstrate extraordinary ingenuity and creativity under confinement. Using unconventional tools like toothpaste tubes, medical bottles, and his own fingers, Htein Lin produced vibrant self-portraits and intricate representations of prison life. The time-stamped paintings vividly capture the emotions and rhythms of incarceration, from the excitement of a new millennium to the longing for freedom.
The exhibition also features Htein Lin’s latest large-scale painting, “Fiery Hell” (2024), which portrays the plight of Myanmar’s rural populations amidst ongoing civil war. This powerful piece depicts figures fleeing burning villages, carrying children, the elderly, and animals, surrounded by red-gold flames. It serves as a stark reminder of the continuing struggles in the artist’s homeland.
Visitors will encounter “A Show of Hands” (2013-), an installation of 12 plaster casts of former political prisoners’ hands from Myanmar. This ongoing project not only records the sacrifices of these individuals but also provides a platform for them to reunite and share their experiences during the casting process.
In a unique collaboration, Htein Lin has worked with residents of HMP Grendon in Buckinghamshire to create new artworks. This off-site exhibition, running from May 1 to 22, explores themes and materials common to prison art in both Britain and Myanmar, featuring portraits and soap block sculptures inspired by the artist’s carving techniques.
The exhibition also includes video works that provide insight into Htein Lin’s writing and performance art. “The Fly” documents a 2005 performance inspired by his prison experiences, while “When I Was a Lousy Millionaire” (2022) revisits his time as a member of the All Burma Students’ Democratic Front, offering a powerful reflection on moral choices during conflict.
Despite being unable to travel outside Myanmar, Htein Lin views this exhibition as a window to the world and an opportunity for the international community to witness the ongoing situation in his country. This comprehensive showcase of Htein Lin’s work not only celebrates his artistic journey but also serves as a testament to the power of art in documenting human resilience and struggle.
The exhibition runs from March 20 to June 1, 2025, at Ikon Gallery, offering visitors a rare opportunity to engage with the profound and moving work of this remarkable artist.
