• To begin, could you share the inspiration behind establishing Good Mood Gallery? What motivated you to create this space in the heart of Yangon?

  Good Mood Gallery was born from a four to five-year dream fueled by a deep passion for art and Myanmar culture antique accessories. My motivation was clear, to create a vibrant space in Yangon where colorful, unique artworks could be showcased, and where people would genuinely love and enjoy them. This vision, of sharing beautiful art and fostering positive engagement, drove the establishment of the gallery.

• Good Mood Gallery has hosted impactful exhibitions like “Healing through ART” and “Rebirth.” How do you select themes and artists for your exhibitions, and what message do you aim to convey through them?

  Good Mood Gallery selects exhibition themes like "Healing through ART" and "Rebirth"directly in response to community needs, such as the recent devastating earthquake. We aim to offer solace and foster resilience.
  
  We choose artists and volunteers (over 50 for the earthquake relief) who are not only talented but also deeply committed to using their art for social good. This collaborative effort, conveys our co lective "heartfelt minds" to strengthen and support the community. Our message is always about solidarity, recovery, and the enduring power of humanity and art to rebuild and inspire hope.

• Good Mood Gallery stands out not just for its exhibitions, but also for the atmosphere and experience it offers visitors. How do you approach curating a space that blends creativity and community, and what kind of experience do you hope each guest takes away?

  At Good Mood Gallery, we believe the visitor experience and personal involvement is as crucial as the art itself. Our approach to curating a space that seamlessly blends creativity and community is highly intentional.
  
  We begin by meticulously selecting artists who align with our vision. This involves many hours of discussion and research to ensure their work possesses uniqueness and authenticity.  Crucially, we also evaluate the artist's mindset and willingness to cooperate with the gallery's vision and goals, ensuring a harmonious relationship that benefits everyone, especially the visitor. Ultimately, we hope each guest leaves the gallery feeling a sense of fruitful happiness and calm. We want them to understand that the artworks displayed are not merely for decoration purposes, but also represent sound investments with significant future value. This blend of aesthetic enjoyment and intellectual appreciation is the core experience we strive to provide.

• In the context of Myanmar's evolving art scene, how does Good Mood Gallery contribute to the promotion of local artists? What challenges and opportunities do you see for artists in the country?

  Good Mood Gallery significantly promotes local artists by providing crucial exhibition opportunities for their artworks to reach the public. We foster mutual benefits aiming to brighten artists' journeys through showcasing their unique creations.
  
  Challenges for Myanmar artists include limited exposure, economic hurdles, and local complexities. However, opportunities are growing with increased creative freedom, rising international interest, new platforms, a strong artistic community, and rich cultural heritage providing endless inspiration.

• As a member of the FMCCI network, how has your affiliation with the Chamber supported your gallery's objectives? Are there areas where you see potential for deeper collaboration?

  Our FMCCI affiliation is key to international exposure for Good Mood Gallery. It enables us to showcase authentic Myanmar art to the Chamber community, fostering collaborations that promote local artists, especially youth. We aim to inspire young people, regardless gender, race and religious towards art as a viable life path, contributing to a more open-minded local community. We seek deeper collaboration for joint cultural exchange, art business training, youth mentorship, and integrating local art into corporate spaces. Good Mood Gallery currently collaborates with Melia Hotel, Hotel Boundary, and 12Inya Fusion to showcase authentic artworks by its galery artists. These partnerships provide unique venues for the public to experience and engage with our artists' creations.

• Good Mood has been actively organizing art exhibitions with a strong focus on CSR and community development. What are your strategic goals for Good Mood Gallery in promoting and enhancing art and culture through the community?

  Good Mood Gallery's strategic goal for promoting art and culture through the community is rooted in the founder's belief that an art gallery is not solely a money-making business. Instead, we see our gallery and exhibitions as vital platforms that reflect and showcase local culture and artistic creations to the community.
  
  Our strategic focus is on CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) and youth development. We believe that by actively engaging in these areas– fostering cultural appreciation and nurturing young talent– business profits will naturally emerge as an embedded outcome, rather than the primary driver. We aim to contribute meaningfully to society, with financial sustainability following as a result of our positive impact.

• What drives your passion for the arts, and what advice would you offer to aspiring gallery owners or art entrepreneurs in Myanmar?

  My passion for art comes from finding and proudly sharing unique, authentic artworks with customers and audiences.
  
  For aspiring gallery owners or art entrepreneurs in Myanmar, it's a tough but rewarding journey. My advice is to:

Uphold high art standards and business ethics, ensuring mutual benefits for all.

Actively promote young artists, as they are the future of the art scene.

Understand art's value beyond decoration—it's for culture, community, and investment.

Be open-minded and adaptable in Myanmar's evolving market.

Build strong networks with artists, collectors, and  organizations.

Remember that while financial sustainability is important, genuine passion for culture, local talent, and CSR will ultimately lead to success.