BURMA
SOMETHING WENT WRONG

Photographs by Chan Chao

November 1 - December 31, 2000
Contact Sheet 109


With the knowledge that Burma's military junta is one of the world's worst human rights violators, Chan Chao's portraits are remarkable for the sense of calm and tenderness that he draws out of each of his subjects. Each portrait is made from an intimate distance, generously placing each subject in the center of the frame surrounded by the soft focus of the lush jungle beyond. Each person that Chao photographs, displays a remarkable range of honesty and emotion that seems to long for a return to the simple pleasures of family, work, and relaxation - not another night of firing rockets or setting land mines.

Chao's goal for this project is to bring greater attention and awareness to the democracy movement in Burma. It is hoped that the publication of the work here will help him realize that goal. Public awareness is only one ingredient necessary to resolve conflicts or end tyranny. Chan Chao has provided us with that essential ingredient and has challenged us to add to the mixture with force and resolve.