Bendigo has been given a unique memento of an artistic and loving people, many of whose lives have been irreparably shattered.

Stunning images of iconic Bendigo landmarks, painstakingly coloured with the dust of gemstones by a group of Burmese artists, go on exhibition at The Capital theatre next week.

The images are based on photographs taken by The Advertiser and sent to Burma by Bendigo local John Steele.

The former View Hill Fellowship minister and BendiMar retailer has forged links with a family business in Yangon, Burma, that produces such work.

He sends all net profits from his central Victoria business back to Burma to support a leadership training school he established in Yangon some years ago.

But the business has not been spared by the natural disaster.

"They have lost a new factory," Mr Steele said.

"They are using a temporary building to continue the work and will rebuild."

A Burmese BendiMar factory owner, who cannot be named for his own safety, said work would continue despite the devastation.

"The most effective way is to continue operating and get manufacturing out of the country to keep the economy going," he said.

The gem dust paintings are produced by laying down a base of natural gum and sprinkling gem dust over the top, with a layer of resin covering it before being transferred to a backing sheet.

"Each one is a piece of art in itself," he said.

"It’s such delicate work.

"Each painting represents one week’s work."

John is keen to return to the country, but is not confident of obtaining another visa this year to continue investment in the Burmese community.

He is unable to wire profits back to the country and is instead forced to transfer funds to Singapore or Bangkok.

Caritas Australia estimates a large percentage of the estimated 1.9 million Burmese who have lost their homes will flee across the borders to neighbouring refugee camps in Thailand, Bangladesh and India.

This follows thousands who already sought asylum from their military government prior to the cyclone.

From Tuesday, May 20, paintings will be hung in the foyer of The Capital theatre and will available for purchase at the box office.

All profits raised will be sent back to the family business.