OPENING CEREMONY OF THE EXHIBITION “LOTUS AND KIỀU CULTURAL SPACE”
On the afternoon of June 9, 2025, at the Special National Relic Site of Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám, the Center for Cultural and Scientific Activities of Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám, in collaboration with the Vietnam Cultural Heritage Conservation Support Fund and Senhouse Vietnam Company, officially opened the thematic exhibition: “Lotus and Kiều Cultural Space.”
As a symbol of noble beauty rising from the mud, the lotus has long been revered as Vietnam’s national flower. In classical literature, the lotus frequently appears as a metaphor for purity of soul, especially in the literary masterpiece The Tale of Kiều by Great Poet Nguyễn Du—a work of 3,254 lục bát verses rich in both artistic and humanistic value.
Mặc Thủy's artworks are inspired by the beauty of the lotus and The Tale of Kiều
The exhibition showcases 32 calligraphy works by artists Mặc Thủy and Ngọc Đình, most of which illustrate notable verses from The Tale of Kiều, delving into the layered symbolism of the lotus. Also on display is a portrait of Nguyễn Du crafted from dried lotus leaves, evoking the image of a refined and intellectual Confucian study space.
A portrait of Great Poet Nguyễn Du crafted from dried lotus leaves
Alongside the calligraphy, visitors can admire lotus-inspired handicraft artworks and a collection of áo dài (traditional Vietnamese gowns) by designer Lan Hương, which express traditional beauty through the language of fashion.
Dr. Lê Xuân Kiêu – Director of the Center for Cultural and Scientific Activities of Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám – delivered a speech at the opening ceremony
At the opening ceremony, Dr. Lê Xuân Kiêu – Director of the Center for Cultural and Scientific Activities of Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám – remarked: “The ‘Lotus and Kiều’ cultural space not only honors the pure beauty of the lotus but also revives the profound humanism and cultural identity of Vietnam, crystallized in Nguyễn Du’s poetry.” He also recalled the contributions of Nguyễn Tiên Điền family—the lineage of Nguyễn Du—to the nation’s education system, particularly Nguyễn Nghiễm, Nguyễn Du’s father, who once served as Tế tửu (Principal) of Quốc Tử Giám, and whose name is engraved on the Doctoral Stele located at this very site.
Ngọc Đình's artworks are inspired by the beauty of the lotus and The Tale of Kiều
The exhibition “Lotus and Kiều Cultural Space” is not only an event of high cultural and artistic value but also acts as a bridge connecting the public to heritage, nurturing a deeper love for national culture among the Vietnamese people—especially the younger generation.
Áo Dài collection showcase
The designer, in a white áo dài, shared her creative process and introduced the special “Kiều” áo dài design at the event.
