Art and belief merge in the sculpture of a Hindu goddess
Synopsis
Surrounded by his lively family in his small flat in Yangon, Brahmin astrologer U Than Htun devotes himself to creating a sculpture dedicated to the Hindu goddess, Chandi. As he skilfully twists straw, kneads clay and applies vibrant paint in order to shape the figure, he explains how his belief informs the entire artistic process.
Director's Statement
As a Christian, I had very little knowledge about the Hindu religion. On entering U Than Htun’s apartment, I was astonished by the vibrant colours of the sculptures of Hindu gods and goddesses that adorn his home. Watching him at work, I quickly became fascinated by the spiritual aspect of his art. “You must be familiar with the goddess’s history in order for the statue to be authentic, otherwise it will just be a toy,” he explained at one point. His ability to be completely at one with his movements and to live in the moment also reminded me of my grandfather, who would make me little clay animals when I was a kid.
Director's Biography
Nant May Flower is a Karen ethnic from Inn Ta Yaw Village in Ayeyarwady Region. She completed high school at a migrant centre in Thailand in 2019 and continued her studies at Theik Khar Myanmar Institute, where she discovered her interest in filmmaking. Since joining YFS she has worked as a cinematographer on Living with Elephants and sound recordist on Colourful Dreams. The short documentary With Love & Devotion marks her directing and editing debut.
Director's Filmography
2023
With Love & Devotion
Director/Editor
18‘41‘‘
