U NGWE GAING | Racing Boats

This work is in good overall condition as viewed. There is evidence of light wear along the edges of the work due to abrasions with the frame, but this does not affect the overall image. There is extremely light craquelure in areas of thicker impasto, but this is stable and consistent with the age of the work. Examination under ultraviolet light reveals minor areas of retouching along the edges of the work. Framed.
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As a leading modernist, U Ngwe Gaing stands as a prominent artist who rendered picturesque depictions of Burmese livelihood. Renowned as a leading figure of the Rangoon School, he was awarded the highest honour and was named the Alinga Kyaw Swa artist. Prior to devoting himself completely to painting, U Ngwe Gaing was a proficient illustrator for magazines, movie posters and books. Largely self-taught, the artist went to London in 1952 and studied the works of European masters which would inform his painterly practice. Characteristic of U Ngwe Gaing’s mature style, Racing Boats depicts a spirited boat race. Three long boats cut across the river, each filled with five men clad in longyis furiously rowing in complete synchronisation. In the background, villagers and performers populate the river banks, enthusiastically cheering and dancing – they’re animated gestures painted with the utmost detail. Their lively activities reflect a strong local spirit as people come together during what appears to be a water festival.

U Ngwe Gaing captures the transparency of the water surface with great dexterity, revealing his maturity in Western painting techniques. The swift brushstrokes of blue, browns and reds not only indicate the battering waves created by in the water, but also show the moving reflections of the paddling boatmen. These elements come together to create a vibrant atmosphere to the painting – we can almost hear the energetic ovations as the boats glide by.

Set against Myanmar’s lush flora and fauna, Racing Boats further celebrates the dynamism of the country’s landscape. At the upper left corner of the composition, the tip of a golden pagoda stands proud amongst the hills in the background. As if indicating the final destination of the race, the stupa shines brilliantly and is reminiscent of the many pagodas that adorn the Sagaing Hill. The present work might depict the annual Shwe Kyet Yet boat racing festival held along the Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy) River since the Inwa era (14th to 19th century Burma) and continues to take place till present day.

Highlighting the significance of spirituality in Myanmar, Racing Boats wonderfully captures the robust spirit of Myanmar’s people and lifestyle. It is a remarkable work that represents the bourgeoning modern art movement in the country by a highly admired artist, U Ngwe Gaing. Endearing vignettes of his homeland are rare, especially in this large format.