PROMINENT Myanmar painter Min Wae Aung left Yangon two weeks ago to attend the August 31 opening of his solo exhibition in Switzerland.

The exhibition “Journey to Asia” is showcasing 14 acrylic paintings by the artist at the Global Art Source gallery in Zurich until September 30.

Min Wae Aung, who is best known for his depictions of Buddhist images in bold colours, said he sees his art as a tool through which he can teach others about his country.

“With my work, I intend to make foreign people know that our country is rich in cultural heritage,” the 46-year-old told The Myanmar Times before leaving Yangon.

“To find inspiration for my work, I often visit monasteries in Yangon and have also travelled to Bagan, Shan State and my birthplace of Danubyu [in Ayeyarwady Division].”

“When I see the scenes of the kind I like during my trips, I sometimes draw sketches with watercolour, but mostly I take photos and draw paintings in my studio,” he said.

The Zurich exhibition was organised by his friend Amber Bohwell.

He has also exhibited in Singapore, Hong Kong, England and the United States during his 22 career. In 1990, he opened his own art gallery “New Treasure.”