“Lacquer Legacy”: A Tribute to Vietnam’s Ancient Art Form

THE HANOI TIMES — Sac Son: A Celebration of Craftsmanship, Culture, and Creativity is currently gracing the historic Ha Vi Communal House on Hang Hom Street in Hanoi’s Old Quarter until August 16th.

The iconic statue, “President Ho Chi Minh Reading the Nhan Dan Newspaper,” reimagined in three lacquered versions. Photo: Cong Tho/The Hanoi Times

Masterfully curated by renowned artist Nguyen The Son, the exhibition showcases a diverse collection of lacquer art masterpieces. The featured artists include notable names such as Vu Xuan Dong, Truong Hoang Hai, Lai Minh Huyen, Bui Kim Hien, and more. Each artist presents their unique interpretation of this ancient art form, utilizing a rich array of materials, techniques, and personal styles.

The Ha Vi Communal House, with its centuries-old architecture, sets the perfect stage for this exhibition. Dedicated to Tran Lu, the legendary founder of Vietnamese lacquer craft, the venue pays homage to the artisans of Ha Vi Village who, centuries ago, brought their lacquer-covered woodcraft to the Thang Long Imperial Citadel.

Visitors will be treated to a wide array of artworks, including intricate lacquer paintings and statues, as well as delicate souvenirs crafted by artisans from Ha Thai lacquer village, renowned for their mastery of this time-honored craft.

Artist Nguyen The Son sharing the art of Vietnamese lacquer with young students.

According to Nguyen Manh Linh, Chairman of the People’s Committee of Hang Gai Ward, the exhibition beautifully showcases the vibrant spectrum of lacquer art, blending tradition with experimentation.

One of the exhibition’s standout features is the innovative collaboration between Nguyen The Son and Vu Xuan Dong, which fuses photography, lacquer, and lighting installation. They draw inspiration from the iconic statue of President Ho Chi Minh reading the Nhan Dan newspaper, creating three lacquered versions, each adorned with distinct Vietnamese colors. This piece commemorates the 135th anniversary of the President’s birth.

Artist Ngo Thanh Bac adds a unique, tactile element with a live lacquer tree and a display of lacquer-making tools. This educational exhibit offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the meticulous process of creating lacquer art, from tapping resin to the final polishing.

Sac Son is more than just an exhibition; it is a dialogue between the past and the present, honoring traditional artisans and celebrating innovation. It is a cultural experience not to be missed, offering a unique insight into Vietnam’s rich lacquer heritage.

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