An exhibition of more than 70 paintings commemorating the 70th anniversary of the October 10 Liberation of the Capital drew visitors of all ages over the weekend.

People come to see the exhibited artwork. Photo: Lai Tan/The Hanoi Times

The artworks, displayed at a center on Trang Tien Street in Hoan Kiem District until August 31, represented the artists' pride and affection for Hanoi. 

Many artists drew inspiration from the song "Marching to Hanoi" by the late composer Van Cao when creating their paintings.

They also recalled the historic flag-raising ceremony at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel on Hanoi's liberation day on October 10.

Some artists depicted Hanoi as a golden star with the five gates surrounded by flowers and flags as the army marched into the city.

Using various techniques, compositions, and vibrant colors, the artists created works transcending the clichés of propaganda painting.

Famous painters included Phan Thi Nga, Nguyen Trung Kien, Bach Thi Loi, Pham Ngoc Manh, and Le Thuan Long. In particular, Nguyen Cong Quang won first prize in logo design.

The expertise assessment revealed that the creators still used familiar graphic symbols and icons, but with innovative tweaks.

"The artworks are becoming more vibrant, stylish and romantic. A dove, the number 70, or famous landmarks of the capital are all well known, but this time there's a noticeable evolution and refinement, radiating a combination of strength and sophistication, especially with a delicate and romantic touch," said Nguyen Nghia Phuong, Chairman of the Graphic Arts Art Council, Vietnamese Fine Arts Association, and Vice Rector of Vietnam University of Fine Arts.

"Many propaganda paintings have a very romantic quality, like a song. This is the freshness we appreciate in this competition," he said.

The jury selected 26 best works for awards. In addition, the judges selected an identity logo and 70 high-quality paintings that will be used for communication for the event.

The selected artworks will enhance the urban landscape at key locations in Hanoi, attracting visitors and residents alike during the celebrations.

The winners of the contest. Photo: Lai Tan/The Hanoi Times

Nguyen Cong Quang, whose logo was chosen as the symbol of this year's ceremony, admired the painters for their artworks. He pointed out that Hanoi has held many art competitions for communication purposes.

The  occasions were the 990th and 1,000th anniversaries of Thang Long - Hanoi, as well as the 60th, 65th and now 70th anniversaries of the liberation of the capital, he said.

"After each contest, the artwork has gotten better. The competitions have attracted many artists and people from all walks of life, especially students. I'm happy to see that the younger generations are increasingly trying to contribute their efforts to spread the love and images of Hanoi and the whole nation," Quang said.

"Autumn has inspired many works of art, but the beauty of Hanoi could be portrayed in more diverse ways. Born and raised in Hanoi, I love this city so much and believe that Hanoi will continue to develop and deserve its status as a cultured, civilized and modern capital".

The art competition was launched in May 2024 to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Hanoi's Liberation Day (October 10, 1954 - October 10, 2024). The contest attracted a wide range of artists, organizations, and art and graphic design schools in the city and across the country.

The participant count reached a record high, with over 300 both professional and amateur creators, among them celebrated artists who have clinched top honors in national propaganda painting contest like Tran Duy Truc, Ha Huy Chuong, Nguyen Cong Quang, and logo specialists such as To Minh Trang, Tran Hoai Duc, Le Quy Hai.

The oldest contestant was 80-year-old painter Tran Duy Truc, a multiple winner of national propaganda painting competitions. At the other end of the spectrum, the youngest entrant was a 20-year-old from the Department of Applied Fine Arts at Hanoi University of Business and Technology.

Moreover, this year marks the highest number of entries, with a total of 700 pieces. The propaganda artworks meet the competition's standards with aplomb, showcasing diverse compositions, brushwork finesse, and a vibrant palette. Many entries exhibit innovative artistic styles that transcend conventional tropes of propaganda painting.