Vietnamese folk art is a vibrant reflection of the country’s rich cultural heritage, deeply rooted in tradition and history. From intricate paintings to symbolic sculptures and fine pottery, these artistic expressions have been passed down through generations. Here are the history, characteristics, and examples of the most important art forms that created the Vietnamese folk artistic identity.
Overview of Vietnamese Folk Art
Vietnamese Folk Art – Dong Ho paintingsVietnamese folk art dates back to the Ly Dynasty in the 1000s, originating from the daily lives and spiritual practices of local communities. Early proofs of Vietnamese folk art were often tied to religious beliefs, ancestral worship, and festivals. Villages across Vietnam, from Dong Son, Dong Ho to Bat Trang, developed their own unique styles, influenced by regional cultures and materials available in their surroundings. Over time, folk art became a way for people to express their aspirations, honor their ancestors, and decorate their homes with meaningful imagery. While modernization has changed many aspects of life, Vietnamese folk art remains an essential part of the nation’s cultural identity. >>>> Explore Museums in Hanoi for a shameless experience for your Vietnamese trip!
Types of Vietnamese Folk Art
1. Paintings
Vietnamese folk paintings have a long history, with some styles dating back hundreds of years. Created by artisans in specific villages, these paintings were originally made for religious rituals, Tet (Lunar New Year) celebrations, and home decorations. Each painting style carries its own characteristics, telling stories about folklore, historical events, and moral values. Characteristics of Vietnamese Folk Paintings
Material: Traditional paintings are created using natural materials such as dó (poonah) paper, woodblocks, and natural pigments derived from natural leaves, flowers, and minerals.
Colors: Vietnamese art usually features bright and lively colors, often in red, yellow, green, and black, symbolizing prosperity, happiness, and good fortune.
Layout: Simple yet meaningful compositions depict themes such as animals, deities, historical heroes, and daily rural life.
Content: Many folk paintings contain elements of storytelling, offering moral lessons, blessings for prosperity, and depictions of mythological creatures.
Dong Ho paintingDong Ho paintings originated from Dong Ho Village in Bac Ninh Province and are among the most well-known Vietnamese folk paintings. Using woodblock printing techniques, artisans create images of animals, folk stories, and good fortune symbols. These paintings are especially popular during Tet as they bring wishes for luck and happiness.
Hang Trong paintingsHang Trong paintings, found in Hanoi, are hand-painted with intricate details and vibrant colors. These paintings were traditionally used in worship and placed in temples and shrines. Unlike Dong Ho paintings, which use woodblock prints, Hang Trong paintings are known for their delicate brushwork and artistic elegance.
1.3. Kim Hoang Painting (Ha Tay)
Kim Hoang paintingKim Hoang paintings, also known as “Red Paintings”, originate from the Kim Hoang village in Ha Tay Province (now part of Hanoi). These paintings are similar to Dong Ho but use red paper as a background, making the images stand out vividly. The themes are often festive, featuring animals and humorous folk tales.
1.4. Sinh Village Painting (Hue)
Sinh Village PaintingsSinh Village paintings, from Hue, are traditionally used for religious and spiritual purposes. They are crafted using natural pigments and depict gods, deities, and folk characters. These paintings are typically found in altars and used in local festivals and ceremonies.
1.5. Dao Giao Paintings (Northern Vietnam)
Dao Giao paintings, also known as Taoist religious paintings, are an essential part of spiritual practices in the Northern mountains of Vietnam, especially among the religious life of ethnic minority groups. These artworks depict deities, celestial beings, and mythical symbols associated with Taoist beliefs. Used primarily in religious ceremonies, Dao Giao paintings carry deep spiritual significance and reflect the harmonious connection between mountainous ethnic minorities and the divine.
2. Sculpture
Sculpture has been a prominent artistic expression since ancient times in Vietnamese folk art, especially in religious and ceremonial contexts. Sculptures in Vietnam are often seen in temples, pagodas, and communal houses, depicting deities, mythical creatures, and historical figures. These sculptures serve both spiritual and decorative purposes, representing the beliefs and craftsmanship of different regions. Characteristics of Vietnamese Folk Sculpture
Material: Most traditional sculptures are made from wood, stone, and bronze, reflecting the availability of local materials and craftsmanship expertise.
Design: Vietnamese sculptures feature intricate carvings, often portraying Buddhist themes, folk deities, and historical warriors.
Symbolism: Many sculptures represent philosophical and religious concepts, with figures like dragons symbolizing power and turtles representing longevity.
Function: While many sculptures are used for worship and spiritual ceremonies, some also serve as decorative elements in traditional Vietnamese architecture.
Types of Vietnamese Folk Sculpture
2.1. Dong Son Bronze Drums
Dong Son Bronze DrumOne of the most iconic examples of Vietnamese folk sculpture is the Dong Son bronze drum, considered the earliest sign of Vietnam folk art in history. Dating back to the Dong Son culture (circa 700 BC – 100 AD), these drums are intricately decorated with carvings of birds, boats, warriors, and daily activities. The drums served both ceremonial and musical purposes, symbolizing power, unity, and the rich cultural traditions of ancient Vietnamese people.
2.2. Wooden Pagoda Sculptures
The Ancient Wooden Door in Vietnam Museum of Fine ArtsWooden sculptures play an important role in Vietnamese temples and pagodas, depicting Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and sacred animals. These sculptures are often intricately carved, showcasing the delicate craftsmanship of artisans from the past. Many wooden statues found in pagodas date back centuries and are considered invaluable pieces of Vietnamese folk art.
3. Pottery
Vietnamese pottery has been an essential part of daily life for centuries, ranging from simple household items to intricately designed ceramics for religious and artistic purposes. Pottery villages across Vietnam, such as Bat Trang and Phu Lang, have preserved traditional techniques while also adapting to modern demands. They are an irreplaceable part of Vietnamese folk art. Characteristics of Vietnamese Folk Pottery
Material: Vietnamese pottery is made from high-quality clay, often sourced from riverbanks and carefully processed to achieve durability and smooth texture.
Techniques: Traditional pottery-making involves hand-molding, wheel-throwing, and kiln-firing, with artisans paying close attention to every detail.
Glazes: Many Vietnamese ceramics are known for their unique glazes, often in shades of blue, brown, and white, creating a distinct aesthetic appeal.
Usage: Pottery is widely used for practical household items, religious statues, and decorative vases, making it a versatile art form with deep cultural significance.
3.1. Bat Trang Pottery
Bat Trang Pottery VillageBat Trang, a famous pottery village near Hanoi, has been producing exquisite ceramics for over 700 years. Bat Trang pottery is well-known for its delicate craftsmanship, unique glazes, and artistic patterns. The village’s artisans create everything from daily household items to elaborate decorative vases and religious statues. Bat Trang ceramics are a testament to the lasting legacy of Vietnamese folk art.
3.1. Phu Lang Pottery
Phu Lang PotteryPhu Lang, another renowned pottery village in Bac Ninh province, is famous for its rustic and earthy ceramic style. Unlike Bat Trang pottery, which is often finely polished, Phu Lang pottery embraces natural textures and deep brown hues. These ceramics are made using traditional wood-fired kilns, giving them a distinctive aged look that highlights Vietnam’s ancient pottery traditions.
Where to see Vietnamese Folk Art Paintings?
If you want to explore Vietnamese folk art, there are several must-visit places where you can admire these traditional masterpieces:
Vietnam Museum of Fine Arts (Hanoi): This museum houses a vast collection of folk paintings, sculptures, and pottery throughout Vietnam’s history, providing insight into its artistic heritage.
Ho Chi Minh Museum of Fine Arts (Ho Chi Minh City): One of Vietnam’s largest art museums, showcasing an extensive collection of traditional and contemporary artworks. Housed in a beautifully preserved French colonial building, the museum features exhibitions on Vietnamese folk art, including Dong Ho paintings, sculptures, and ceramics.
Dong Ho Village (Bac Ninh): Visit the birthplace of Dong Ho paintings in Bac Ninh Province near Hanoi to see artisans at work and learn about the woodblock printing technique.
Bat Trang Pottery Village (Hanoi): Experience the art of ceramics firsthand and try your hand at making your own pottery piece in this Village right on the outskirts of Hanoi.
Hue Imperial City (Hue): This UNESCO-listed site showcases traditional Sinh Village paintings and other cultural artifacts.
Northern Mountains of Vietnam: Home to many ethnic minority communities and an ideal place to see Taoist folk paintings, known for their spiritual and symbolic meanings. These paintings, often found in local temples and homes, reflect the region’s deep-rooted Taoist beliefs and cultural heritage.
Local Markets and Temples: Many traditional markets sell folk paintings, while temples display sculptures and religious artworks.
Vietnamese folk art is more than just decoration – it is a reflection of the nation’s culture, beliefs, and history. Whether through paintings, sculptures, or pottery, these art forms carry the stories of past generations and continue to shape Vietnam’s artistic identity. By exploring and appreciating Vietnamese folk art, we not only celebrate its beauty but also contribute to preserving a timeless tradition for future generations. If you are an art lover, book your trip to Vietnam with YESD Travel, and let us guide you through the nation’s artistic environment!
