10 Years of Artistic Journey in the Forest

This year's exhibition features eight new works by eight artists, spanning materials such as stainless steel, sheet aluminum, cast bronze, and ceramics. The diversity of materials and approaches demonstrates the level of innovation in contemporary sculptural creation.

Mr. Luong Xuan Doan, President of the Vietnam Fine Arts Association, commented: "These works are highly appreciated, demonstrating the innovation and maturity of many artists," while emphasizing the role of the natural setting, he said: "These spaces also have their own value and should be humbly preserved like a museum amidst the pine forest."

8 new works - 8 distinct aesthetic voices

Entering the pine forest, viewers encounter a series of works showcasing diverse schools of thought and creative philosophies. Nguyen Tran Uu Dam's "Portrait of Emptiness" is particularly striking with its layered metal structure, creating a transparent effect when viewed from the front. Developed over 30 years, the work transforms from a Buddhist image into a deeper concept of impermanence and emptiness.

Conversely, Dao Chau Hai's "iron bird in silent space" is minimalist in detail but rich in visual volume. The pyramid structure raises questions about inner strength: can freedom be expressed through stillness?

Walking along the path under the pine trees, sculptor Hoang Tuong Minh's "No Limits" emerges with barbed wire becoming a symbol of the invisible boundary that humanity always tries to escape. Artist Do Hiep's "Another Place" brings a dreamy quality with the image of fairy wings, in a village temple sculpture – large wings and a small body – an image the artist considers very simple and down-to-earth, reflecting the simple desires in everyone's life.

Not far away is the elaborate ceramic sculpture "in the earth, beneath the surface" by artist Le Anh Vu, revealing subtle layers, reminiscent of the journey of human self-discovery. Artist Le Thi Hien brings vibrant pink hues to her "lotus" sculptures, with paper-folded forms moving as if floating, weightless in the exhibition space.

In particular, the remaining two works, "Source" by Hoang Mai Thiep and "Okay, friend" by Pham Dinh Tien, placed side by side, create a dialogue between symbolic roots and youthful wit, between the sacred and everyday life.

A rare art museum nestled in nature in Vietnam.

Over the past decade, the outdoor exhibition area at Dai Lai has developed a rich collection of works, including dozens of large sculptures, paintings, and installations. The works are arranged on grassy hills or within pine forests, completely without walls or ceilings. This open space means that viewing is heavily reliant on natural light, weather, and the viewer's perspective.

Mr. Luong Xuan Doan gave an overall assessment: “The more than 130 works displayed over the years demonstrate the great efforts of the artists. These works express the connection between art and nature, bringing profound emotions and strong beliefs. The artists have skillfully chosen suitable spaces and environments to create, harmoniously combining with nature.”

This year, the exhibition offers free admission for six months to students of all levels and plans to organize art tours for teenagers in the coming years. This is seen as a way to expand access to the younger audience.

The exhibition marks 10 years of outdoor art and showcases the evolution of contemporary Vietnamese art as it seeks new ways of interaction. Eight new works serve as eight emotionally rich "touchpoints," further expanding the space for connection between art, nature, and humanity.

Text and photos: Hai Anh