Artist Duong Thu Phuong and one of her collection of linen dresses. — Photo courtesy of the artist

Though the exhibition is about fashion, she is showcasing 20 mannequins wearing the dresses, helping visitors contemplate the works from all angles, Phuong said.

“I still design my own clothes but this is the first time I have experienced designing linen dresses with my pictures painted on,” said Phuong.

“The front of the dresses is simple to make it a frame for the paintings, while the rear is designed with cut-out and decorative details,” said Phuong.

“I use fabric colours and linen, the natural materials that are good and convenient for wearers.”

Phuong said she drew inspiration from romantic love which is presented through kisses.

“While working, I often listen to Hãy Yêu Nhau Đi (Let’s Love Each Other) by Trinh Cong Son. It says ‘Let's love each other though the forest changes leaves/ Let's love each other even though the time has drifted away/ Let's lull each other on the tender words/ Let's love each other, then the rock gets cheerfulness also’,” she said.

“The dresses and paintings in the collection will be filled with your love and passion for life.”

Painter Nguyen Do Bao, former president of Hanoi Fine Arts Association, remarked that as Phuong lives in Austria, her paintings are clearly influenced by Western art.

“We can see Western art and the spirit and grace of an Eastern woman combined in these artworks, they bring positivity for audiences and users,” he said.

A painting in the collection Kusskiss. — Photo courtesy of the artist

Phuong was born in 1980. She started handicrafts at the age of seven as she worked with her mother, an embroiderer. When she was a little girl, she showed interest in painting. However, she decided to pursue maths and economy. Since 2016, she gave up her career as an IT engineer to devote herself to art.

The exhibition of paintings and dresses will run until December 2 at Ca Chep Gallery, 115 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Hanoi. — VNS

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