Elderly artists make it clear that their chief concern is to most thoroughly express their own ideas. They love and make art as if urged by their personal need. Calmly proceeding on the way they have chosen, they never compare themselves with other people out of jealousy and are ready to acknowledge and respect talent.
Contemporary artists are dynamic and eager, and they dare to hope for breakthrough. They work hard, meet with success but are easily content with fame, money and badly endure pressure.
It is not sufficient to stand near, go farther backwards or around. We know that the master painters of Vietnam often went straight to the heart of things and phenomena thanks to their vitality and experiments. The good example of the preceding generations of painters is always a lesson and an encouragement for the contemporary artist.
Vu Hong Nguyen is a painter who holds in high regard steady and lasting values, so the structure of his works constantly shows due proportion. Coherence and system will naturally ensue from this advantage but the weak point is that this may hinder progress, namely explosion and mutation. As a remedy the artist should strive for a life rich in inner feelings and knowledge.
From his first solo exhibition to date, Vu Hong Nguyen’s professional behaviour and technique have much expanded. The question he raises tends to be more open and convincing, a few of his works touch lightly on uncontrollable spheres. This is encouraging for an artist who wishes to go farther; with this, he may hopefully define his own identity.
Hanoi, November, 16, 2005
Artist Nguyen Xuan Tiep