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Thet Oo Maung
I came from far away
July 12, 2024 - August 25, 2024
about the exhibition
on view: july 12 - agust 25
In the depths of every photograph lies a story waiting to be told—a narrative of resilience, courage, and the undying human spirit. "I came from far away" is not merely a collection of images; it's a testament to the journeys of those who dared to dream beyond borders, to those who sought refuge in the unknown, and to those who found solace in the arms of hope.
Each frame encapsulates a fragment of a larger narrative, one that transcends geographical boundaries and speaks the universal language of humanity. As you wander through this exhibition, you'll find yourself traversing landscapes both physical and emotional, encountering the triumphs and tribulations of those who dared to venture into the unknown.
In the haunting gaze of a young child, you'll glimpse the innocence lost amidst the chaos of displacement. Their eyes, windows to a world of upheaval and uncertainty, reflect the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Through the lens of the photographer, their stories are immortalized, their voices echoing across time and space.
Amidst the rubble of war-torn cities, you'll discover the remnants of a once-thriving community, now scattered and fragmented by the ravages of conflict. Yet, amidst the ruins, there is beauty to be found— the enduring bonds of family, the resilience of makeshift homes, and the flicker of hope amidst the darkness of despair.
In the crowded shelters and makeshift camps, you'll bear witness to the strength of solidarity, as strangers become allies in the struggle for survival. Here, amidst the chaos of displacement, humanity shines brightest, as acts of kindness and compassion bridge the divides of language, culture, and creed.
But "I came from far away" is not just a chronicle of hardship—it is a celebration of resilience, a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who refuse to be defined by their circumstances. Through their journeys, we are reminded of the power of the human spirit to endure, to adapt, and to triumph against all odds.
As you leave this exhibition, may you carry with you the stories of those who came from far away, their journeys etched into the fabric of our collective memory. For in their struggles and triumphs, we find echoes of our own humanity, reminders of the bonds that unite us all in our common quest for a better tomorrow.
save the date
Friday, July 12th @6PM - 8PM
Exhibition Reception: I came from far away by Thet Oo Maung
Celebrate the opening of "I came from far away" by Thet Oo Maung. We will be featuring one of Maung's short films. After, take your time to get to know Maung and view his exhibition. There will be light appetizers served by XIA and Maung. Drinks and dessert can be purchased in the cafe. "I came from far away" is not just a chronicle of hardship—it is a celebration of resilience, a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who refuse to be defined by their circumstances. Through their journeys, we are reminded of the power of the human spirit to endure, to adapt, and to triumph against all odds.
about
the exhibition
on view: july 12 - august 25 30
In the depths of every photograph lies a story waiting to be told—a narrative of resilience, courage, and the undying human spirit. "I came from far away" is not merely a collection of images; it's a testament to the journeys of those who dared to dream beyond borders, to those who sought refuge in the unknown, and to those who found solace in the arms of hope.
Each frame encapsulates a fragment of a larger narrative, one that transcends geographical boundaries and speaks the universal language of humanity. As you wander through this exhibition, you'll find yourself traversing landscapes both physical and emotional, encountering the triumphs and tribulations of those who dared to venture into the unknown.
In the haunting gaze of a young child, you'll glimpse the innocence lost amidst the chaos of displacement. Their eyes, windows to a world of upheaval and uncertainty, reflect the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Through the lens of the photographer, their stories are immortalized, their voices echoing across time and space.
Amidst the rubble of war-torn cities, you'll discover the remnants of a once-thriving community, now scattered and fragmented by the ravages of conflict. Yet, amidst the ruins, there is beauty to be found— the enduring bonds of family, the resilience of makeshift homes, and the flicker of hope amidst the darkness of despair.
In the crowded shelters and makeshift camps, you'll bear witness to the strength of solidarity, as strangers become allies in the struggle for survival. Here, amidst the chaos of displacement, humanity shines brightest, as acts of kindness and compassion bridge the divides of language, culture, and creed.
But "I came from far away" is not just a chronicle of hardship—it is a celebration of resilience, a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who refuse to be defined by their circumstances. Through their journeys, we are reminded of the power of the human spirit to endure, to adapt, and to triumph against all odds.
As you leave this exhibition, may you carry with you the stories of those who came from far away, their journeys etched into the fabric of our collective memory. For in their struggles and triumphs, we find echoes of our own humanity, reminders of the bonds that unite us all in our common quest for a better tomorrow.
meet the artist
Importance to Burmese Community
This exhibit holds profound significance for both my Burmese community and society at large for several reasons:
Fostering Empathy and Understanding: The photos in this exhibition offer a window into the lives of migrants and refugees, allowing viewers to empathize with their experiences on a deeply human level. By showcasing these stories, we promote understanding and compassion, bridging the gap between "us" and "them."
Challenging Stereotypes and Prejudices: In an era marked by divisive rhetoric and misinformation, it's crucial to challenge stereotypes and prejudices surrounding migration and refugee crises. This exhibit provides an opportunity to confront misconceptions and biases, replacing them with nuanced perspectives grounded in real human experiences.
Raising Awareness: Many people are unaware of the complex factors driving migration and displacement around the world. By showcasing the realities faced by migrants and refugees, this exhibition raises awareness about the root causes of these crises, from conflict and persecution to poverty and environmental degradation.
Advocacy and Solidarity: Through the power of visual storytelling, this exhibit serves as a platform for advocacy and solidarity. It amplifies the voices of marginalized communities, urging viewers to take action in support of refugee rights, humanitarian aid, and policies that promote inclusion and integration.
Celebrating Resilience and Diversity: While the stories depicted in this exhibition often highlight the struggles faced by migrants and refugees, they also celebrate resilience, courage, and the richness of diversity. By showcasing the strength and contributions of displaced communities, we affirm their inherent dignity and worth.
Ultimately, this exhibit serves as a call to action, challenging viewers to confront the realities of migration and displacement with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to building a more
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Thet Oo Maung
Thet Oo Maung is a Burmese Photographer who utilizes his photos to spread important messages about social justice and human rights, especially for his people back in his home country, Burma. While living in Burma, he was given the opportunity to host the Human Rights Film Festival which received hundreds of submission nationwide.
A Word from the Artist
In "I came from far away" I aim to capture the human experience of migration and refuge through the lens of empathy, understanding, and resilience. This exhibition is not just about showcasing photographs; it's about sharing the stories of individuals who have embarked on journeys of unimaginable hardship and hope.
Through each image, I endeavor to convey the complex emotions and challenges faced by migrants and refugees around the world. From the haunting gaze of a child amidst the chaos of displacement to the makeshift shelters and crowded camps that serve as temporary havens, every frame serves as a window into the lived experiences of those who have been forced to leave behind everything they know.
Yet, amidst the adversity, there is a thread of resilience that runs through each story—a testament to the indomitable human spirit. In the midst of turmoil, we witness acts of solidarity, compassion, and courage that transcend borders and languages. These are stories of survival, of resilience, and of the enduring hope for a better tomorrow.
Through "I came from far away," I invite viewers to step into the shoes of migrants and refugees—to see the world through their eyes, to empathize with their struggles, and to recognize their inherent dignity and worth. It is my hope that this exhibition will not only raise awareness about the challenges faced by displaced communities but also inspire compassion, solidarity, and action in support of a more inclusive and compassionate world for all.