The third edition of “Can’t Stop Won’t Stop” kicked off at The Commune CNX in Chiang Mai, Thailand, on Feb. 19. The opening event, titled “For the Love of Heroes,” brought together 20 artists who showcased their work in an art exhibition.
“We won’t stop doing what we love doing. We can’t stop being artists. We can’t stop being painters, theatre makers, or creators. This festival is a platform for artists,” said Hnin Win, the founder of A New Burma which hosts the annual festival.
This year’s “Can’t Stop Won’t Stop” featured the Patchwork Collective Theatre, marking the first time a theatre collective has been a part of the exhibition. Despite challenges such as funding cuts to cultural grants and humanitarian aid, the efforts of the arts community in northern Thailand have kept the festival alive.
“We are very grateful that the community is here to put on this event. We hope to continue this exhibition and festival in 2026 and beyond unless we can go home [to Myanmar],” added Hnin. Can’t Stop Won’t Stop takes place at RX Cafe in Chiang Mai, Thailand Feb. 19–22.
