156 days: Aung Min

Today was a day of cultural immersion and peaceful reflection. I decided to visit Shwenandaw Monastery, drawn by the promise of intricate wood carvings and serene surroundings. The moment I entered the monastery, I felt a deep sense of calm. The teak wood carvings were exquisite, telling stories of Buddhist mythology in every delicate detail.

While exploring the monastery, I met a local historian named Aung Min. He was sitting quietly in a corner, sketching the intricate designs of the monastery. Curious about his work, I approached him and we struck up a conversation. Aung Min told me that he had been documenting the history and art of Mandalay's monasteries for over a decade. His passion for preserving Myanmar's cultural heritage was evident in every word he spoke.

Aung Min told me about the importance of Shwenandaw Monastery, which was originally part of the royal palace complex before being moved to its current location. He explained how the monastery's wood carvings are some of the finest examples of traditional Burmese art. We spent hours discussing art, history and the importance of cultural preservation.

Inspired by Aung Min's dedication, I spent the rest of the afternoon sketching the details of the monastery, hoping to capture even a fraction of its beauty in my artwork. Meeting Aung Min and learning about the monastery's history was a highlight of my day and added to my understanding of Myanmar's rich cultural tapestry.