HCMC – An exhibition titled “Nam Su Hoa Kieng” is being held at Annam Gallery in HCMC from May 2 to 31 to introduce visitors to the history and development of southern Vietnamese glass painting art.
The exhibition is organized by the Sai Gon Vi Vu project to mark its 10th anniversary and features selected glass painting works reflecting the cultural memories and artistic value of the art form.
According to the exhibition organizers, glass painting first appeared in the Hue royal court during the reigns of Emperors Minh Mang and Thieu Tri, mainly through Chinese craftsmen and imported paintings.
In the early 20th century, the art form developed in Cho Lon as Cantonese Chinese communities settled in the area. Two main categories of glass paintings emerged, including congratulatory paintings and worship paintings.
By the 1920s, glass painting production had expanded to Lai Thieu in present-day Binh Duong Province and later spread across southern provinces. Lai Thieu, Cho Lon and Cho Moi in An Giang Province became key production centers.
The exhibition presents the evolution of Southern glass painting through themes depicting daily life, rural landscapes and religious imagery, alongside changes in aesthetics and techniques over time.
A highlight of the exhibition is the reverse-painting technique on glass, in which artists paint details in reverse order, starting with smaller elements before completing the background.
The exhibition space is divided into three sections featuring original works, restored mirror paintings and contemporary applications of glass painting art.
Visitors can also learn about the meanings and uses of the paintings, as well as restoration and contemporary creative efforts involving design, graphics and fashion.
