Painting by German artist Katrin Hamann at the exhibition at Việt Nam Fine Arts University. — VNS Photo Nguyễn Bình

HÀ NỘI — About 120 paintings and sculptures by international and Vietnamese artists have gone on display at the Việt Nam Fine Arts University.

The artworks were made at the Hà Nội Art Connecting 2019 event which took place in the capital recently, gathering about 140 domestic and foreign artists.

During the five-day event, artists took part in workshops and exchanges.

A painting by Japanese Mina Katsuki is a highlight of the exhibition. Sized at 90cm by 90cm, the untitled artwork is painted entirely with blue and looks like a bell.

“The painting was made in a very special way,” said artist Trần Mạnh Linh, from the event's organisation board.

“During the workshop, she only mixed blue making 101 shades of blue. On the final day, she used the colours to paint a circle. She spent time meditating before she made a final action to complete the painting.

“It looks like a demonstration. I think all people seeing her work are hugely impressed when she uses eight big brush pens to draw the last line. She makes amazing moments.”

From central province of Bình Định, artist Lê Trọng Nghĩa is also a newcomer at the event. His sculpture entitled Sự Sống (Life) was made from timber and iron featuring a log and iron strings sponge to live and bloom.

Timber and iron are often used by Nghĩa, who won an award from the Việt Nam Fine Arts Association in 2013. He currently teaches at Bình Định College’s Fine Arts Department.

“In the cycle of five elements, wood is controlled by metal,” said Nghĩa.

“The sculpture is contrary to the theory. Iron strings are nourished by wood to grow and bloom. It conveys that in a modern society, all developments begin with tradition."

The event allowed him to meet and exchange with international artists from across the world.

“I enjoy the days in Hà Nội and I have time to live in a breathtaking place and amazing atmosphere.”

A painting by German artist Katrin Hamann is also eye-catching, as it includes two pieces with bold and bright colours.

The painting looks a bit like pop art as it is very colourful. Hamann used purple shades as a main colour to paint a woman’s face, something that always impresses her.

Her painting, in the expressionism and meditation styles, is acrylic on canvas. This is the second time Hamman has attended the event.

The exhibition is held under the Hà Nội Art Connecting 2019, displaying artworks by 60 foreign and 80 Vietnamese artists to the public.

The event was initiated by Asia Art Link and has been held annually since 2016.

The exhibition runs until October 30 at Việt Nam Fine Arts University, 42 Yết Kiêu Street, Hà Nội. — VNS