ABSTRACT
Myanmar’s rich historic and contemporary cultural diversity has encouraged artistic innovation and expression. This diversity and innovation were embraced in the post-Independence period but became severely curtailed under military rule. During the recent period of transition, government and donor-funded initiatives supported development and expansion of Myanmar’s cultural sector. This resulted in growing community interest in tangible and intangible cultural heritage and a burgeoning in traditional arts and the broader artistic sphere. It also signalled re-engagement with international arts and heritage communities. There have been challenges related to recognition and conservation of heritage sites and the liberalisation of artistic expression after decades of censorship. In 2020 the global COVID-19 pandemic slowed capacity building in the sector, and since the 1 February 2022 coup activities have all but ceased. Censorship is again curtailing artistic freedoms, and with an unstable political environment, international collaborations are mostly on hold. Against a historical background, this chapter explores Myanmar’s art and heritage sectors, central and local support for cultural heritage activities, engagement with the international community and organisations, and the impact of the global pandemic and military coup.
