U Marlar was born in 1953 in Nandawkyun Village, Upper Myanmar. A graduate of the State School of Fine Arts, Mandalay, he studied under masters: U Kan Nyunt, U Aye Kyaw, U Kyaw Lay, U Tin Aye, U Zaw Win and U Win Maung. His paintings often focus on historical locations in Myanmar as he has a keen interest in archeological research. The artist spent nine years (1976-1985) working in the Department of Archeology. He later moved to the Soundar School of Textile, where he was an instructor of Art and Design.

His works have a wonderful maturity, serenity, and composure about them, much like his approach to life. Much respected nationally and internationally, his works are in Myanmar National Museum and in collections worldwide. U Marlar’s favorite medium is watercolor, at which he excels. He started using oil in 2006 and these artworks debuted in his solo show entitled, “Irrawaddy Days”.