Renewing Vietnamese Lacquer

At the exhibition “80 Years of Journey of Independence-Freedom-Happiness”, the art space “Happy Vietnam-Happy Vietnam” attracted a large number of visitors, especially the area displaying carved lacquer works by Latoa Indochine, becoming a stopover, where folk heritage meets contemporary art.

Latoa Indochine's display area in the "Happy Vietnam" exhibition space.

Happy Vietnam is a photo and video contest on the national image promotion platform “Vietnam.vn”. Here, visitors can admire 150 photos and 30 videos on three themes: Happy Land depicts the natural beauty, cultural heritage and richness of regions; Happy People depicts images of work, study, creativity and sharing; Happy Moments captures simple but emotional everyday moments.

In this space, happiness is not only present in the frames but also spreads as emotions associated with the message of a country built by the hands of labor and a persistent creative spirit. In this spirit, the lacquer work reproducing the "Proclamation on the Transfer of the Capital" by King Ly Thai To becomes a prominent mark in the exhibition space.

With skillful hands, using the language of modern painting, the artist has preserved the spirit and conveyed the aspiration for a prosperous and sustainable nation for all people. Standing in front of the work, viewers not only see a decree but also feel the spirit and vision of King Ly Thai To in his aspiration to build a prosperous Thang Long.

The delicate lacquer lines with bright, warm yellow color evoke the majesty of the dynasty, making viewers feel like they are touching a piece of history. Visiting the exhibition area, Ms. Nguyen Van Ha ( Hanoi ) shared: The exhibition space opens up an emotional journey of artistic experience. The lacquer works help viewers feel part of the national quintessence and the talent of the artisans.

Originating from the quintessence of Hang Trong, Dong Ho, and Kim Hoang folk paintings, Latoa Indochine continues and renews the heritage with carved lacquer (a creative and unique combination of two methods: lacquer and carved lacquer).

Folk paintings that reflect the life, beliefs and aesthetics of the Vietnamese people over many centuries, now under skillful hands, the motifs are re-engraved using the technique of many layers of paint, metallic, eggshell, and gold, sometimes opaque, sometimes clear, creating a unique visual effect. Each work retains the cultural soul, while at the same time evoking the desire for happiness in the journey of national development. From that intersection, Latoa's lacquer carvings not only awaken memories but also open a bridge connecting heritage with contemporary life.

Ms. Truong Hoang Dieu Linh, Director of Latoa Indochine Company, shared: Making lacquer paintings is an elaborate journey that requires patience and master techniques. From the stage of making the frame (wood processing), applying many layers of lacquer, polishing to hand-carving and continuing to apply, polish, and polish many times... each stage is very meticulous. Each layer of polishing opens up a layer of color and light, making the work like a harmony between tradition and creativity, between materials and Vietnamese culture.

What attracts the public is not only the beauty of the paintings but also the opportunity to experience them directly. Under the guidance of the artisans, many young people are excited to try their hand at making molds, cutting, carving and polishing. The operations seem simple, but when doing them themselves, people can see the sophistication that this art requires. Many people enthusiastically participate, eagerly receiving the results of their work. More than 1,000 paintings completed by visitors themselves become memorable memories and leave an unforgettable experience. The exhibition thus not only brings visual enjoyment but also arouses love for traditional culture, arouses curiosity to explore and awareness of preserving heritage.

Established in 2022, the name “Latoa” has the meaning of spreading, reflecting the journey of building a Vietnamese cultural brand associated with traditional heritage. In just a few years, Latoa has made its mark through many exhibitions, cultural and artistic events at home and abroad, where lacquer carving is welcomed as an art form with new vitality, not only recognized as a traditional craft technique but also as a rich and flexible art form.

The journey of Latoa Indochine shows that heritage is not only a memory to be preserved but also a source of creativity and integration. In the journey of globalization, art is both an aesthetic expression and a cultural-economic product with strong influence. Young Latoa artisans are making lacquer become a cultural ambassador and contributing to promoting the image of Vietnam closer to international friends. That is also the way Vietnamese fine arts affirm their position in today's cultural industry flow.

NGOC LIEN

Source: https://nhandan.vn/lam-moi-son-mai-viet-nam-post906584.html