The Vietnam University of Fine Arts stands as the cradle of modern Vietnamese art - a place where generations of artists have been nurtured in a rich confluence of national tradition and Western artistic sensibility. For nearly a century, this institution has kindled the flame of creativity, shaping the souls of countless artists and sending Vietnamese painting, sculpture, and graphic arts into the world, each bearing a distinctive cultural imprint.
As the university marks its 100th anniversary, Dòng chảy ("Flow") - an exhibition curated by former students and faculty from the Faculty of Art Education - offers a heartfelt reunion of those who once walked the school’s storied halls. More than a showcase, it is a profound tribute to the place that shaped generations of artists, from the era of the École des Beaux-Arts de l’Indochine to today. It is a gesture of deep gratitude to the teachers who ignited the first sparks of passion and guided young talents on their lifelong artistic journeys.
Artwork by painter Dang Hiep on display at the exhibition.
The exhibition has drawn enthusiastic support from painters, sculptors, art critics, and current lecturers testament to the enduring vitality of the school’s artistic heritage.
Chu Anh Phương, Head of the Faculty of Art Education, shared: “We carry with us a deep pride and gratitude for having studied at a school steeped in tradition an institution that has empowered generations of talented artists, sculptors, and critics, and helped shape the face of Vietnamese fine arts. We are the inheritors of a quiet yet steadfast stream of creativity passed down from our teachers, fueled by the tireless spirit of generations of students. Through history’s ebb and flow, the passion for art remains unshaken. This exhibition, organized by alumni of the Faculty of Art Education, is our collective tribute to the university’s centenary.”
Dòng chảy features 70 works by 56 artists - all alumni of the Faculty of Art Education. While the exhibition cannot represent every generation, it brings together distinguished faces from across decades, each artist contributing a unique emotional tone, a personal style, and a distinct view on life and art.
Artwork by painter Luong Thu Ha on display at the exhibition.
The participating artists are not only technically skilled but also deeply engaged with contemporary life, remaining attuned to the pulse of the times. Many have made their mark through national and regional exhibitions, solo and group shows both in Vietnam and abroad, as well as through active involvement in the Vietnam Fine Arts Association.
Beyond creating art, many alumni have gone on to become educators, cultural leaders, art designers, and professionals contributing significantly to the broader art scene. Their work continues to inspire, shaping the future of Vietnamese fine arts through both practice and pedagogy.
Artwork by painter Minh (Pho) on display at the exhibition.
Dòng chảy is not only a tribute - it is a proud continuation of a passionate and creative spirit. It looks back to its origins, to the emotional wellsprings that have birthed so many deeply expressive works rooted in love for life and art. It is also a celebration of the university’s centennial - a milestone that reaffirms the institution’s prestigious role as a leading center for fine arts education in Vietnam.
More than just an exhibition, Dòng chảy is a vibrant meeting point for alumni across generations. It is a living thread that weaves together decades of artistic tradition, spreading love and dedication for art to younger artists and current students alike.
The exhibition opened at 5:00 PM on August 4, 2025, and runs through August 10, 2025, at Art Space, 42 Yết Kiêu Street, Cửa Nam Ward, Hanoi.
Translate by MINH KIÊN
VNQD