OPENING OF THE "A THOUSAND YEARS OF HERITAGE" EXHIBITION

 To mark the 950th anniversary of the establishment of Quốc Tử Giám (1076–2026) and the 81st National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam (2 September 1945 – 2 September 2026), the Centre for Cultural and Scientific Activities of Văn Miếu - Quốc Tử Giám, in collaboration with the Tôi Vẽ Art Club, organised the exhibition "A Thousand Years of Heritage." The exhibition aims to offer the public an inspiring artistic space where heritage is reimagined through diverse creative perspectives.

Attending the opening ceremony were Assoc. Prof. Dr Đỗ Văn Trụ, President of the Vietnam Cultural Heritage Association and Member of the National Cultural Heritage Council; Bùi Thị Hương Thủy, MA, Deputy Head of the Cultural Heritage Management Division, Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports; Dr Lê Xuân Kiêu, Director of the Centre for Cultural and Scientific Activities of Văn Miếu - Quốc Tử Giám; artist Đinh Quang Huy, Founder of the Tôi Vẽ Art Club; artist Nguyễn Thanh Tuyền, Co-founder of the Tôi Vẽ Art Club; together with representatives of partner organisations and sponsors, as well as numerous artists, art lovers, and members of the press and television media.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Dr Lê Xuân Kiêu, Director of the Centre for Cultural and Scientific Activities of Văn Miếu - Quốc Tử Giám, shared: "Through this exhibition, we can see a living, continuous current of learning running through the ages. In the past, Quốc Tử Giám was a place of teaching and Learning, where scholars and talented individuals were educated and trained. Today, within this very space, we can still witness the transmission of knowledge and the creative endeavours of teachers and students across generations." He emphasised: "Learning knows no boundaries. It is a continuous current flowing through the past, the present, and the future."

The exhibition brings together artists from a wide range of ages, from young artists aged 10 to those over 60, presenting more than 120 works in a variety of media, including lacquer, silk, dó paper, woodblock printing, and watercolour.

The works focus on the beauty of Văn Miếu - Quốc Tử Giám and Hanoi, while also exploring Vietnam's culture, architecture, and everyday life. In particular, the participation of 15 young artists brings fresh, innocent perspectives on Văn Miếu - Quốc Tử Giám and the nation's cultural symbols.

The exhibition space is arranged by artistic medium, combining the display of artworks with installation art. A highlight of the exhibition is "Vinh quy bái tổ" (Returning Home in Honour to Pay Respect to One's Ancestors), measuring 2.5 × 7 metres. The work was created entirely by hand and incorporates a system of fabrics representing the Five Elements, designed by the Tôi Vẽ Art Club.

Sharing his thoughts on the exhibition, artist Đinh Quang Huy, Founder of the Tôi Vẽ Art Club, said: "More than 120 works in diverse media by 50 artists of different ages and professions offer a wide range of perspectives on Vietnam's heritage. From architecture, people, and nature to culture and everyday life, each work has its own voice, yet a shared love of heritage unites all. We hope the exhibition will help the public recognise that heritage does not belong solely to the past; it remains present in our lives today and continues to inspire creativity."

The exhibition also features a series of hands-on workshops entitled "Heritage Imprints," "Colours of Heritage," and "Shimmering Heritage," offering visitors opportunities to explore woodblock printing techniques, create works on wood, and practise traditional lacquer techniques.

Through its artworks and hands-on activities, the exhibition helps bring heritage closer to the public and foster a deeper appreciation of traditional cultural values.

Come and visit the exhibition, take part in its engaging workshops, and discover the beauty of heritage through inspiring works of art!

Thanh Huong

Translator: LH