Myanmar graffiti artists upset over new ban on their handiwork, but expect many to carry on

YANGON, Myanmar – Graffiti artists in Myanmar say they're unhappy with a new ban on their handiwork in the country's biggest city, but expect many to carry on anyway.

Yangon city authorities imposed a ban 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 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 against the law.