HÀ NỘI — An exhibition entitled Lối Phong (The Path of Phong) is showcasing paintings by Đào Hải Phong.

Veteran Phong has selected 25 of his oil-on-canvas paintings for his second solo exhibition in Việt Nam. 

Ao Sen (Lotus Pond) sized at 135cm by 155cm by Đào Hải Phong. — Photo Nguyễn Bình

"It's taken me twenty years to hold my second solo exhibition," said Phong at the opening ceremony at the South Korean Culture Centre in Hà Nội. 

"I'm moved because there are many artists from different circles visiting the exhibition.

"I have held many exhibitions abroad but they were for commercial purposes. This time I'm free to choose the paintings I like which represent my creative style."

The paintings clearly show the maturity of the artist during his nearly 30-year career. 

Each painting finds a way of expressing a very personal and strong feeling. 

"The Korean Cultural Centre is honoured to host the exhibition," said Park Hye-jin, the centre's director. 

"I've seen paintings by Phong at exhibitions in Hà Nội and HCM City. It is great. The exhibition makes a contribution to promoting cultural exchanges between Việt Nam and Korea."

Being chosen by art is both an honour and a challenge for the artist.

"I myself always think there is no definite end in art," Phong said. "Yet after years and years of working, I never stop wondering if any unpainted picture should reach my own limit.

"Looking back, though, I could not make out where the outset was. Time does fly when one has a dream to follow."

The beginning of The Path of Phong coincided with his children's homecoming. 

His oldest son invited a group of friends along with which each has their own style and their own passion carrying the hope and dream of their own family.

In the book, Phong talks to readers by paint and by stories about his life, his family and the world they live in and by words from friends and from people of younger generations. 

Born in 1965 in Hà Nội, Phong has had exhibitions in Britain; Hong Kong; US and Italy. 

The exhibition The Path of Phong runs till November 30 at 49 Nguyễn Du Street. — VNS