Silk Painting

Developing beyond traditional paper painting, Vietnamese silk painting has transcended its original classification as merely a cultural artifact to become a significant symbol of contemporary art. Vietnamese silk painting is celebrated for its softness, elegance, romance, and, notably, its stylistic versatility.

As with other forms of painting, the material selection is crucial for creating aesthetically pleasing artworks. Unlike silks from countries such as China and Japan, Vietnamese silk has a unique texture, which shapes the painting process. Artists typically stretch the silk on a wooden frame, applying paint directly onto the fabric or dyeing it.
Photo: @kiettacnghethuat

In Vietnam, silk is often used as the painting surface itself, while artists elsewhere might apply a thin layer of rice paste on the silk beforehand to avoid the repetitive washing and dyeing process that Vietnamese painters utilize. Distinct from Chinese silk painting, Vietnamese silk and lacquer paintings allow for layers that can be appreciated from below, symbolizing the Vietnamese aspiration for a bright future.

Notably influenced by French artistic styles, Vietnamese silk painting captures the essence of real life, favoring a more realistic composition over an idealized interpretation, which is common in Japanese and Chinese artworks. The dynamic interplay of colors significantly enhances the visual impact of Vietnamese silk paintings. While the palette is generally vibrant and luminous, certain elements may be stylized to emphasize the underlying themes.
Photo: @vulieu

Delicate brushwork with vivid blocks of color intermingles throughout the smooth silk fibers, infusing the artworks with vibrancy and life. Through Vietnamese silk paintings, viewers are transported to the picturesque rural landscapes, quaint villages, tranquil sceneries, historical events, and the essence of daily living. While the golden age of silk painting in Vietnam, spanning 1925 to 1945, has come to an end, the potential for this art form continues to inspire generations of silk painters and art enthusiasts, looking ahead to the future.