"PRESERVATION & ADAPTATION"
THE FIRST INDEPENDENT RESEARCH
My research, titled "Application of Traditional Vietnamese Folk Elements into the Works of Three Contemporary Artists—Pham Khac Quang, Bui Thanh Tam, and Pham Tuan Tu" aims to demonstrate how ancient traditions can be revitalized. I selected these three artists for their unique methods: printmaking, collage, and oil painting. Each integrates Vietnamese folk elements in their work - the juxtaposition creates a sense of playful incongruity, inviting the viewer to contemplate the intersection of cultures and the passage of time. showing that innovating on folk traditions can open new avenues for Vietnamese artists in a time of intense East-West cultural convergence.
Building on my background in both traditional and modern art, I embarked on an independent research project under the guidance of Mr. Tran Quoc Duc, a mentor who has accompanied me for 4 years in exploring the intersection between traditional and contemporary art. Together, we sought to answer a key question: Should the blend of modern and traditional art become a new trend for young artists to establish their unique identities and broaden perspectives through historical lessons?
"The Deal" - an artwork by Artis Pham Tuan Tu, using the image of "Carps Watching the Moon" - a notable artwork of Vietnamese traditional "Hang Trong" genre, in combination with a portrait of a woman wearing a modern style bralette
"Fly Together" - an artwork by Artist Bui Thanh Tam
This artwork presents a unique fusion of traditional Vietnamese attire (costumes & characters) with iconic Western elements (Mona Lisa portrait, Marilyn Monroe's hairstyle, some modern vehicles)
To support my thesis, I synthesized information, conducted interviews, and compared the folk elements in their paintings. My goal was to assess and critique how traditional themes are being adapted in contemporary contexts, highlighting how they distinguish themselves from mainstream modern art. This research has already been pre-approved by Vietnam Studies and is scheduled for publication in March 2025, marking a step forward in understanding the cultural fusion shaping Vietnamese art today.