Revealing images of Myanmar; a country enjoying its first years of freedom
- Text by Shelley Jones
- Photography by Geoffrey Hiller
Myanmar is a country in the throes of a cultural revolution. Since its sixty-year-long military dictatorship ended in 2011, and travel and economic sanctions are lifting, the Southeast Asian republic is entering a new era of democracy.
It’s a period of change captured sensitively by documentary photographer Geoffrey Hiller in his book Daybreak in Myanmar. Hiller, who has been shooting in the region since 1987, brings together 170 of his colour photographs in the tome to explore the “anticipation, hope and concerns of a nation forgotten by the world”.
As well as the images, the book includes text from well-known activists, writers and dissidents on topics such as native spirits and Buddhism, being arrested for blogging, and growing up in an ethnic village on the border. The resulting document paints a picture of Myanmar on the cusp of a great change.
Daybreak in Myanmar is available now from Hillier’s website.
You might like
In photos: Black Texas life since emancipation
Kinship & Community — A new photobook and exhibition showcases the rich culture, history and community of African American folks in the Lone Star State, whose existence in the region predates colonial Britain.
Written by: Miss Rosen
Youthful joy & end-of-era poignancy at a London school prom
Leavers — For several years, Lewis Khan documented young people as they celebrated the last of their school days and the completion of their exams. The series is now collated in a new self-published photobook and short film.
Written by: Zoe Whitfield
Harry Gruyaert’s vintage, kaleidoscopic scenes of New York
A Sense of Place — For 50 years, the Belgian photographer and Magnum Photos member has been capturing NYC’s colourful chaos. A new photobook and exhibition showcase his unique, technicolour view of the city.
Written by: Miss Rosen
In the pit at one of the UK’s last stock car & banger speedways
Stock Car Racing Isn’t Dead — Photographer Liam McCarthy spent time in and around the Arlington Raceway’s circuit, capturing the diehard community that keeps the sport alive.
Written by: Isaac Muk
Inside Lower Duck Pond, the nicest town on the internet
/r/HaveWeMet — With a population of 2,500 and no fixed location, the subreddit is a space for roleplaying citizens to solve mysteries, host fictional events and ultimately connect. In an internet that’s often divided and toxic, Vicky Jessop hangs out in one of its most wholesome corners.
Written by: Vicky Jessop
A major Nan Goldin exhibition is coming to London
You Never Did Anything Wrong — Opening at the Hayward Gallery in November, the show will debut a new film from the artist and activist, alongside a slate of recent work.
Written by: Jack Dennison-Thompson
