Adding to this, Tiep mixes water colour with powdered diep (a species of seashell found in Viet Nam) to create his own unique style. The artist says he finds inspiration for his work in memories of his childhood in the countryside.
In reference to his painting Tre Chan Trau Hat (Buffalo Boys Sing), Tiep says: “The song about buffalo-herds comes from my vivid and happy memories of when I was a child. I’ve lived in many northern provinces, like Ha Tay, Phu Tho and Vinh Phuc and the images of the peace and quiet of the countryside have always stayed with me.”nguyen art gallery
In another painting, Mat Na (Mask), Tiep says he explores the human subconscious. “A mask is a personification of daily life. It also contains an essence of human character.”
Tiep is expert in his use of old and modern materials, according to art critic Hoang Bach Diep. “He deserves the name of a master painter with his sophisticated management of techniques and media.”
Visitor to the exhibition Bui Phuong Dung agrees. “I used to think traditional media like do paper was only good for folk art but seeing the show has made me change my mind. I especially like his painting Tu Su (Narrative), the colours look like they are flickering, like mirages,” he adds.nguyen art gallery
Tiep’s work has a vital quality, artist Nguyen Xuan Doan says. “For an artist, though his career rises or falls, he must follow his own purpose and style. Tiep is such an artist.”
Tiep first rose to fame in the 1980s. He has taken part in 20 group exhibitions across the world, including Thailand, Japan, the US, Switzerland and Britain. He has also had four solo exhibitions in Viet Nam.
The show will run to Friday at the Exhibition House, 29 Hang Bai Street, Ha Noi. — VNS
