(BNP) - On March 26th, at the Dong Ho Folk Painting Conservation Center (Thuan Thanh Ward), the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism inaugurated the Vietnamese Folk Painting Exhibition. Mr. Mai Son, Standing Vice Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee and Head of the Organizing Committee for the UNESCO Certificate Reception Ceremony attended the opening ceremony.
Standing Vice Chairman Mai Son (second from the right) presents flowers to congratulate the Exhibition.
This is part of a series of special cultural events celebrating the UNESCO recognition of the Dong Ho folk painting craft as a heritage in need of urgent safeguarding; the announcement of the Yen Tu - Vinh Nghiem - Con Son - Kiep Bac complex of historical sites and scenic spots as a World Cultural Heritage site; and the opening of the "Returning to the Heritage Region of Bac Ninh 2026" Festival.
The leaders and delegates cut the ribbon to inaugurate the exhibition.
Comrade Mai Son, Standing Vice Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee, visited the exhibition booths displaying Vietnamese folk paintings.
The exhibition showcases over 100 representative works from four genres of Vietnamese folk painting, arranged into thematic display spaces, giving the public a more comprehensive, systematic, and in-depth understanding of Vietnamese folk painting art. Each style of painting bears its own unique mark: Dong Ho paintings are simple and gentle, reflecting the charm of the Kinh Bac region; Hang Trong paintings are elegant, reminiscent of Thang Long; Kim Hoang paintings are vibrant, representing the Doai region; and Sinh village paintings are deeply imbued with religious symbolism, representing the ancient capital of Hue. Although differing in style, technique, and geographical location, they all share a common thread: the spirit of folk creativity and the distinct cultural identity of Vietnam.
Visitors visit the Dong Ho folk painting exhibition booth.
Notably, the exhibition features artisans – "living treasures" from traditional craft villages – who not only bring their skills and knowledge but also convey their love for their craft and their spirit of preserving and passing on heritage to future generations.
In addition, the exhibition recreates the atmosphere of the old Dong Ho painting market along with traditional art performances such as Quan Ho singing, Cheo singing, Then singing, and water puppetry, offering the public meaningful and emotionally rich cultural experiences.
The Hang Trong folk paintings are on display at the exhibition.
The exhibition is open to visitors until March 30, 2026. It contributes to further spreading the value of national cultural heritage; linking preservation with sustainable tourism development; and strengthening cultural exchange and connection between localities and internationally. Furthermore, it raises community awareness of the role and value of traditional cultural heritage. This is also an opportunity for artisans, researchers, and folk art enthusiasts to meet and exchange ideas, thereby opening up new directions in the preservation and promotion of heritage values in the contemporary context.
