Artists from Nhau Studio's Applied Watercolour and Artistic Anatomy classes participate in the exhibition. — VNA/VNS Photo Tuyết Mai

HÀ NỘI An art exhibition to support 12th graders before their graduation exams later this month has opened at the special national heritage site Văn Miếu - Quốc Tử Giám (Temple of Literature - Imperial Academy) in Hà Nội.

The Sĩ Tử 2 (Exam Candidate 2) exhibition showcases over 70 works by 23 artists from the Applied Watercolour and Artistic Anatomy classes at Nhau Studio, expressing unique perspectives from candidates during the exam season.

Following the success of the first edition in 2024, the Sĩ Tử 2 exhibition has been more thoughtfully invested in both content and presentation. The display space at the Temple of Literature adds a sacred significance, inspiring candidates on their journey to conquer knowledge.

The artworks vividly and intimately depict the experiences of candidates during the stressful period of exam preparation, from simple depictions of study to images of the trạng nguyên (poinsettia) flower and graduation caps – symbols of honour and distinction following a great achievement.

The artworks depict the experiences of candidates during the stressful period of exam preparation. Photo courtesy of the Centre for Văn Miếu - Quốc Tử Giám Cultural and Scientific Activities

Beyond merely enjoying the art, viewers can also experience a simulated candidates’ journey through various creative interactive sections, such as a career choice corner, a knowledge retention area, the image of koi fish in a gateway, a simulated exam room and a wish tree.

A highlight of the 20-day event is a series of workshops, including activities like decorating conical hats, LEGO printing and watercolour painting, along with thematic discussions on weekends.

An interactive section within the exhibit. — VNA/VNS Photo Tuyết Mai

A watercolour painting competition will also be organised by the International Watercolour Society's Việt Nam branch (IWS Vietnam). The competition promises to be a platform that connects people, spreads passion and discovers new talents within the Vietnamese artist community.

Lê Xuân Kiêu, director of the Centre for Văn Miếu - Quốc Tử Giám Cultural and Scientific Activities, said that Sĩ Tử 2 was meticulously prepared with the participation of many artists, creating a distinctive creative space that inspires. The exhibition serves as a strong source of encouragement for candidates in their upcoming exams.

Nguyễn Ngọc Linh, co-founder of Nhau Studio, said the exhibition provides an opportunity for students to create art and collaborate together, thereby enhancing their connection and enriching their artistic emotions.

“We also hope it will become an annual event, creating beautiful memories with each exam season,” he added.

IWS Vietnam representative Nguyễn Thùy Anh said that his society continues to organise meaningful activities to connect the domestic and international artist communities.

The exhibition aims to support the 12th graders before their upcoming graduation exams. — VNA/VNS Photo Tuyết Mai

The organisers convey an emotional message of encouragement to the candidates through the exhibition.

"In the stressful days of preparation, take a moment to find tranquillity in this inspiring space, which has witnessed countless generations of students," they said.

"No matter the outcome, trust that your efforts are always worthwhile. Keep a pure heart and a hopeful spirit – these are your most precious belongings."

Sĩ Tử 2 will run until July 10. VNS