Vietnamese artist Hoàng Thị Kim Dung presents her acrylic engraving My Mother. Photo congluan.vn

HÀ NỘI — An exhibition showcasing 120 printmaking works by artists from Việt Nam, China, Laos and Thailand offers diverse perspectives on memory, cultural identity and contemporary artistic expression.

Under the themes of Historical Memory, Contemporary Creativity and Interdisciplinary Experimentation, the exhibition brings together works that explore historical experiences and new ways of expressing heritage values, building on longstanding cultural ties and friendship among countries in the Lancang – Mekong region.

“The exhibition is a cross-border dialogue among artists, bringing together outstanding and emotionally resonant works that strengthen the bonds of friendship among the four countries,” said Professor Li Jiashan, director of China’s National Institute for Cultural Development Strategy.

“This allows the public to see the shared cultural roots running through history, as well as innovation emerging from interdisciplinary exchange.”

The exhibition features 120 works, including 15 by Vietnamese artists, created using a range of techniques such as monoprinting, woodcut, lithography and acrylic engraving.

Each work reflects the artist’s individual vision. One notable example is My Mother by Hoàng Thị Kim Dung, an acrylic engraving inspired by an ordinary moment in everyday life.

"An everyday scene with my mother inspired me to create this work," Dung said. “I wanted to preserve that simple image in my artwork as a way of expressing my love for her.”

The 105 works by artists from China, Laos and Thailand feature a wide range of printmaking techniques, including woodcut, lithography, screen printing and metal engraving.

Their subjects range from traditional customs, community festivals and natural landscapes to philosophical questions and the transformation of urban spaces.

The diversity of themes and techniques reflects the distinct perspectives and cultural experiences of artists from each country.

Đào Quốc Huy, chairman of the Việt Nam Fine Arts Association, praises the exhibition’s concept and the way artists convey their stories through their works.

“The appeal of art comes from its ability to transcend linguistic and cultural barriers,” Huy said.

“The works demonstrate this power to connect, allowing audiences from different cultural backgrounds to engage with and appreciate their messages.”

The exhibition is part of an art project supported by China’s National Arts Fund and held in rotation across Việt Nam, Laos and Thailand.

According to Professor Guo Hao of Yunnan Arts University, the Lancang – Mekong River is not only a lifeline for communities along its banks but also a cultural thread connecting values shaped and enriched over generations.

“Bringing works from different cultures together in one exhibition space does not seek to erase each country’s distinct identity,” Hao said.

“It encourages audiences to recognise and respect differences while discovering common ground. In this way, artistic exchange helps foster mutual understanding and strengthen friendship among the peoples of the region.”

The exhibition also opens up new opportunities to connect art with the creative economy. Through showcasing their works, artists can gain wider exposure, exchange experiences and explore opportunities for collaboration in the fine arts.

The exhibition runs until November 25 at the Fine Arts Exhibition House, 16 Ngô Quyền Street, Hà Nội. — VNS