When Aung Chan Thar, a young photographer from Myanmar, was selected to represent his country as part of the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity’s (ACB) Young ASEAN Storytellers programme in 2022, he embarked on a journey that would capture the essence of his nation’s rich culture and natural beauty.
Aung’s first stop was the Inlay Lake Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its floating gardens and the Intha people, who have built their homes and livelihoods around the serene waters. “The Intha people live around the lake and build floating houses: structures made from bamboo on stilts,” Aung explains. “Fishing is a common occupation; they use their feet to paddle their boats. So is the production of colourful cloth.”
Captivated by the vibrant scenes, Aung returned to Inlay Lake 10 times, documenting the daily lives of the locals and the intricate process of cloth-making. In 2023, he captured a stunning image using his mobile phone, which showcased the true beauty and vibrancy of the traditional cultural occupation. “I staged it to focus on the importance of this traditional cultural occupation. I wanted to show that Myanmar people strive to be productive even in the most difficult times. Displaying the cloth like this, on the water, showed its true beauty and vibrancy.”
The following year, Aung’s dedication to nurturing young photography enthusiasts in Myanmar led him to create the Conservation Photography Workshop for Myanmar Youth, funded by the ACB. “I will continue to nurture young photography enthusiasts,” he says. “Development is weak here for various reasons, but I am always proud to be a citizen of this country.”
Aung’s work has not only captured the essence of Myanmar’s culture and biodiversity but has also inspired a new generation of storytellers to showcase the richness of their homeland. His journey is a testament to the power of photography to bridge cultural divides and celebrate the resilience and creativity of the human spirit.
