On the evening of September 9, the exhibition "Friendship: Singapore and Vietnam 50-10" opened at the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum, showcasing artworks by 14 artists from the two countries.

The exhibition presents an artistic journey that transcends borders, cultures and languages, with a collection of compelling artworks by established and emerging Vietnamese and Singaporean artists.

A visitor at the exhibition watches the artworks of P. Gnana. Photo: Ngo Minh/The Hanoi Times

Through their creative interpretations, these artists explore the rich tapestry of people, culture, lifestyles, and the built environment within their own homelands and across borders. Showcase highlights Jeffrey Wandly (Singapore) and Pham Thuy Tien (Vietnam) will present works that depict the diversity and richness of the cultures and traditions of both countries.

Jeffrey Wandly's artwork depicts the Huong (Perfume) River, which flows through the central city of Hue.

"More than just a waterway that stretches 80 km, it's a symbol of the imperial city of Hue and corresponds to the principles of Fengshui in the Nguyen Dynasty, signifying wealth and prosperity. It also reminds us of the history of our Singapore River, allowing us to share stories of Vietnamese and Singaporean heritage and friendship. Art can promote cultural understanding and encourage us to reflect on our past and the promise of tomorrow," he said.

Jeffrey Wandly’s artwork depicts the Huong (Perfume) River.

Meanwhile, Pham Thuy Tien is showing an artwork inspired by the geographical and historical similarities of the two nations related to rivers and seas. She collected folk tales and stories related to water from both countries. These stories were created as a means of exploring the narratives of the past. The installation piece takes shape using coracles, rice paper, and a net representing a swimming jellyfish. Underneath is sand to symbolize the land.

An installation art by Pham Thuy Tien. Photo: Ngo Minh/The Hanoi Times

Other artists in the exhibition include: Cao Thuc, Duong Manh Quyet, Vu Hoang, Au Dinh Kien, Nguyen Hoang Dung, Ha Chau Bao Nhi, Ruslan Vu (Vietnam) and (Singapore): Masturah Sha'ari, Hiroko Mita, P. Gnana, Terence Tan, Dominic Thian

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Vietnam and the 10th anniversary of the strategic partnership this year, the exhibition is a poignant testament to the long history between the two nations.

According to Ambassador of the Republic of Singapore to Vietnam Jaya Ratnam, "This exhibition provides us with an opportunity to showcase and celebrate our strong cultural ties under the theme of Friendship. With this theme of cooperation, the artists have collaborated and explored the similarities and differences between our peoples and cultures to create these artworks.

Healing entity, a sculpture by P. Gnana. Photo: Ngo Minh/The Hanoi Times

"Art is a wonderful thing that has the power to transcend languages and borders and bring people together. I hope that as you enjoy the artworks on display, you will find your own connections of friendship as seen through the eyes of the artists' unique artistic journeys," he said.

Jeffrey Wandly, Chairman of the Exhibition, said the exhibition resonates deeply with the spirit of friendship between Singapore and Vietnam over the years.

"By transcending language and borders, art has the power to forge meaningful connections. This exhibition serves as a dynamic platform to promote cultural exchange and mutual understanding and to celebrate the enduring relationship between the two nations. This event reminds us of the deep-rooted ties between our nations and catalyzes future collaborations in the arts and culture. It is our shared hope that it will contribute to the strong friendship and understanding between the people of both countries," he said.

The exhibition runs until September 14 at the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum, 66 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Hanoi.