An exhibition telling the differences between life in a big city and that in the countryside, featuring two contemporary artists Doan Xuan Tung and Nguyen Nghia Cuong, will be held at the VICAS Center for Assistance and Development of Contemporary Arts (VICAS Art Studio) in Hanoi from February 20 to March 12.

Moving from the countryside to the city has been an everlasting issue that takes place everywhere, not only in Vietnam. Big cities have always been appealing to youngsters from rural areas because of the development opportunities, convenience and trendy lifestyle.

However, some people still keep their countryside lifestyle when moving to cities so they cannot adapt to the new environment, making them feel lost and isolated.

On the other hand, many people who have been living in cities for a long time are dreaming of a slower, fresher and more peaceful life in the countryside.

The two dimensions of city and countryside will be reflected through artworks by two contemporary artists who have contrary living conditions.

Doan Xuan Tung is a young countryside man who is now living in Hanoi. His paintings reflect the expectations and not-so-romantic realities of poor workers.

Tung’s works present images of temporary and messy shelters, crowded buses, as well as the dreams and sorrows of countryside people living in big cities.

Meanwhile, after hard years in the city, Nguyen Nghia Cuong decided to return to his home village. Cuong’s paintings show his love for the city but not the regret for the glamorous life there. They instead confirm his choice of coming back to the countryside was a good choice. He depicts the romance of countryside lifestyle and expresses a rather sarcastic attitude towards the reality in big cities.

Two artists, with two different artistic styles, will make viewers ponder questions about life in big cities and rural areas.

Talking about the exhibition, Bui Quang Thang, artistic director of VICAS Art Studio, said: “Each of us, depending on our experiences and our economic and social positions, will have our own thoughts and contemplation after seeing their work. There is no common answer for everyone. Some would still be longing and striving for a desirable life in big cities, and they will say: ‘Hello! I’m coming to you.’ But at the same time some others will say: ‘Farewell, I’m leaving you now!’”

Some paintings that will be on display at the exhibition:

SGT