Myanmar graffiti artists unhappy with new ban, artists expect many to continue

YANGON - Graffiti artists in Myanmar are unhappy with a new ban on their handiwork in the country's biggest city, but expect many to carry on one way or another.

Yangon city authorities imposed a ban on Monday prohibiting anyone from drawing on public buildings, roads and bridges, as well as in schools and parks.

Authorities said anyone defying the ban would face an unspecified punishment.

The graffiti artists said on Tuesday that the ban was not a surprise because authorities were copying regulations enacted in other countries. The artists also said they expected many to continue drawing, and urged authorities to provide a legal outlet for their work so they would not have to act illegally.