Five Vietnamese artists - Nguyen Nghia Dau, Tran Van Duc, Do Duc Khai, Nguyen Van Thuat, and sculptor Le Van Khuy - are uniting their artistic visions in the exhibition "Companionship."

The show, running from November 28 to December 4, 2024, at the Center for Art Appraisal and Exhibition, 29 Hang Bai, Hanoi, celebrates the fusion of tradition and contemporary creativity in lacquer art.

Nguyen Nghia Dau's lacquer works explore the delicate interplay between abstraction and symbolism.

His five circular paintings, set within square frames measuring one meter each, depict flowing feminine hairlines and gentle curves, symbolizing youthful vitality.

The compositions blend warm and cool tones, embodying the eternal fertility of Mother Earth through their subtle, evocative harmony.

Tran Van Duc’s works are inspired by the vibrant spring festivals of northern Vietnam’s countryside and the lively atmosphere of highland markets. 

His iconic motifs - conical hats, flowing scarves, clouds, and ancient temple roofs - radiate outward from the center of his lacquer paintings, creating a dynamic celebration of tradition.

Do Duc Khai, renowned for his depictions of Hanoi's iconic Long Bien Bridge, continues to honor its legacy through his lacquer art.

Though not born in Hanoi, Khai's connection to the bridge during his formative years imbues his work with warmth and nostalgia.

His recent abstract interpretations highlight the unique qualities of lacquer materials and techniques, reaffirming his mastery of the medium.

Le Van Khuy’s mixed-media reliefs, inspired by his family photo albums, evoke a sense of intimacy and authenticity. 

By combining composite materials with lacquer techniques, Khuy captures scenes of daily life with a minimalist yet expressive style. His works convey emotions ranging from ethereal serenity to the joyous simplicity of family moments.

Nguyen Van Thuat merges feminine forms with floral motifs in his signature lacquer style.

His paintings depict a boundless space filled with blossoms and dancers, where sky and earth are indistinguishably intertwined. In this vibrant realm, flowers and women embody life’s vitality, performing eternal dances through the seasons.

"Companionship" offers a rich exploration of Vietnam’s lacquer art, reflecting both personal creativity and shared cultural heritage. The exhibition will be open to the public from November 28 to December 4, 2024, at the Center for Art Appraisal and Exhibition in Hanoi.

Tinh Le