Htein Lin

The exhibition reflects Htein Lin’s recent experience of living and working in Pindaya, Southern Shan State, where the landscape, local stories and the legendary spider of Pindaya have become increasingly important to his recent practice.

Central to the exhibition is ‘Animal Charm’, an ongoing multimedia project developed at Grace Estate. Through 10 handmade animal masks using recycled papers, paintings and a short film, Htein Lin transforms people into animal characters and reverses the familiar relationship between humans and animals. In the film, the animals become the protectors of humanity, creating a protective charm using the Burmese letters စ · ဓ · ဗ · ဝ (Sa · Da · Ba · Wa).

Other works, including ‘Arachnid Enclave’ and ‘My Hope for a Metamorphosis’, continue Htein Lin’s exploration of the spider as a figure of transformation, resilience and interconnectedness. ‘Ya Mone Na Patt Pyo’ draws on a Myanmar classical song that has accompanied Htein Lin since his youth, translating its memories and imagery into a surreal painting.

Across ‘Zootopia’, Htein Lin moves between personal memory, local folklore and imagined worlds, using animals as a means to reconsider identity, human experience and our relationship with the natural world.

Animal Masks, 2026

Coming From Kalaw is an independent art company based in Kalaw, Southern Shan State, Myanmar, led by gallerist Kyeal Sin Lin. It curates exhibitions, connects artists with businesses and runs cultural programmes, working with more than 30 local artists.

Its gallery space, CFK_Art Space, presents solo and group exhibitions by artists from the Shan Highlands, alongside events, workshops and art consultancy for collectors and partners. Its non-profit arm, CFK_Art Fund, offers free art education to underserved young people.

‘Zootopia’ is the second joint presentation between Coming From Kalaw and West Eden, following ‘Ek Kha Ya’ in 2025.