Ando talks about her paintings at the exhibition. — Photo toquoc.vn

Hội An collaborated with Japanese artist Seake Ando to organise a lacquer painting exhibition with the theme "Microcosmos x Macrocosmos – Hội An, Where I live between two cosmoses” as part of the celebrations for the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Việt Nam and Japan (1973-2023).

This is also the opening activity of festivities in the 19th "Hội An-Japan Cultural Exchange” event.

The exhibition displays Ando’s unique artworks, which draw inspiration from the natural beauty and landscapes of the enchanting ancient town of Hội An, which she considers her second home. Her deep affection for Hội An is vividly expressed in her paintings.

Nguyễn Thế Hùng, deputy chairman of Hội An City People’s Committee, said at the opening ceremony that the exhibition of lacquer paintings by Ando not only served as a testament to the endless inspiration that Hội An’s scenery and people offer to artists but also helped promote the town to the world.

Nguyễn Thế Hùng, deputy chairman of Hội An City People’s Committee, praises the exhibition’s contribution to promoting Hội An’s culture. — Photo toquoc.vn

“The artworks help promote the image of Hội An to local and international audiences. This is also the way painter Ando contributes to the city’s aspiration to be part of the network of creative cities in arts and folklore of UNESCO,” said Hùng.

Consul General of Japan in Đà Nẵng, Yakabe Yoshinori, also highlighted the significance of the exhibition, emphasising that it strengthens mutual understanding and deepens the friendship between Japan and Việt Nam.

The paintings on display capture both the minutiae and grandeur of Hội An’s micro and macro worlds. Each artwork exudes a distinct charm, with some pieces intricately depicting fine details, while others portray expansive landscapes.

Born in Japan in 1968, Saeko Ando later settled in Việt Nam, dedicating her passion to Vietnamese traditional lacquer art and painting. Her paintings beautifully blend Japanese sensibility with traditional Vietnamese lacquer techniques, earning widespread acclaim for their artistic prowess.

Beyond her artistic pursuits, she has also garnered recognition as a researcher in the field of natural lacquer, sharing her expertise at conferences and seminars around the world.

Ando’s love and passion for Hội An and Vietnamese traditional lacquer art are embedded within the intricate details of her paintings. — Photo toquoc.vn

The exhibition of Ando's lacquer paintings not only celebrates the cultural exchange between Hội An and Japan but also emphasises the enduring power of art in fostering mutual understanding and friendship between nations.

Another artwork directed by Ando, the opera project “Princess Anio”, will also be premiered in September 2023 at the Hanoi Opera House to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Việt Nam.

The event runs till August 27. — VNS