Pearl Art Space presents an exhibition, “Melting Landscapes” by artist, Khin Zaw Latt. The landscapes in this series draw inspiration from the artist’s time in Chiang Mai, Thailand, before evolving to reflect the natural beauty of Pindaya and Kalaw in Southern Shan State. Some of these scenes are captured from memory, while others are derived from photographs and sketches, imbuing the works with a personal yet documentary-like quality.
Khin Zaw Latt’s creative philosophy is one of embracing both structure and spontaneity. Reflecting on his process, he explains:
“There are two things I understood while painting. First, the importance of planning—working meticulously until the outcome matches my vision. I sign my work only when I’m fully satisfied. But at times, the painting takes on a life of its own, transforming unexpectedly during the process. For example, I might begin with the intention of using orange, but through the layering of paint or the movement of my brush, the color evolves into something darker or entirely different—and I allow it to remain that way if it feels right.”
This adaptive approach is central to the “Melting Landscapes” series. It reflects a willingness to deviate from traditional methods and expectations, resulting in works that vary in style—from realism to abstraction. Khin Zaw Latt resists the urge to depict landscapes in a predictable or picturesque way. Instead, he strives to inject personal meaning into his work, moving beyond mere representation to create landscapes imbued with thought, emotion, and a sense of fluidity.
In this series, he experiments with unconventional techniques—letting paint drip, tilting the canvas to guide its flow, and scratching lines into the surface. This process of knowing when to stop, even if it risks the appearance of an unfinished work, adds a layer of tension between control and freedom. For Khin Zaw Latt, landscapes should not mimic photographic accuracy; instead, they should reflect the artist’s inner world, offering viewers a new and unexpected perspective.
With “Melting Landscapes”, Khin Zaw Latt pushes the boundaries of landscape painting, inviting viewers to engage with a dynamic interplay of form, color, and emotional expression.
The exhibition “Melting Landscapes” is open to the public with no admission fee from now until 15 November 2024
at Pearl Art Space, located at Pearl Art Bangkok (BTS Ari, Exit 1) with daily opening hours from 10 AM to 7 PM.