VI
EN
A year ago, Ha Hoai received a commission from Toong to create a large sculpture in the atrium area spanning five floors. What followed was a period of tireless work by the artist, from his studio in Ho Chi Minh City to the actual work at Toong Phan Boi Chau.
The unique collection gradually took shape, consisting of 50 sculptural blocks inspired by internal allergies, which are then reflected in the surrounding environment. Today, "The Mutant" is complete and has become the largest sculptural installation in Do Ha Hoai's career.
"The 'Mutant' is an evolution of the sculptures titled 'Allergy' that I've been creating for the past 10 years. The Mutant is 15 meters tall, with its feet at the bottom of the ocean, its arms on the ground, and its head in the clouds. In the next few years, with the passage of time, the Mutant will combine with the moss of Hanoi to create a new layer of color that will surprise viewers," said sculptor Do Ha Hoai.
Sculptor Do Ha Hoai brings "The Mutant"—the largest sculptural installation of his career—to the Toong creative space at 51 Phan Boi Chau, Hanoi.
Do Ha Hoai doesn't focus much on using words to express his work. He believes that each person will perceive the artwork differently, depending on their emotions, thoughts, and perspective. The artwork will also appear different depending on whether you view it from below, above, or from a specific angle. Most importantly, he wants space and time to embellish the artwork. Natural light or artificial light will evoke different emotions. Time will change the wall color, cover the artwork with moss, and alter the appearance of the "Mutant" over the years…
Do Ha Hoai is one of the creative artists discovered and supported within the Toong platform. Since his first solo exhibition at Toong, 126 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Ho Chi Minh City in 2021, his works have been featured in international sculpture exhibitions such as the Sasaran International Art Festival/Art Exhibition in Malaysia and the Vietnamese Wind The Debut Gathering in Japan.
"The Mutant" consists of 50 different small statues.
Do Hoai Ha chose to collaborate with Toong because Toong, a name inspired by beehives, embodies the founder's and colleagues' ambition to create work environments that are not only comfortable but also inspiring.
With 20 locations spanning from Hanoi - Hue - Ho Chi Minh City - Laos, each boasts a unique architecture and concept. The Toong Phan Boi Chau location harmoniously blends the elegant beauty of Hanoi's old streets with the free-spirited lines of contemporary art. Interspersed within the contemporary urban architecture are decorative touches of old wrought iron railings, evoking a nostalgic yet romantic Hanoi atmosphere, providing employees with a comfortable and creative workspace.
"Mutants" is an evolution of Do Ha Hoai's previous exhibition, "Allergies".
In particular, the appearance of Do Ha Hoai's artwork "The Mutant" throughout the 5 floors and 15-meter height creates a workspace that integrates cultural and artistic elements, offering unique experiences for "office workers" in the Toong community – allowing them to work, appreciate art, and gradually enhance their aesthetic sense.
