Sunday, 2 November 2014

Asian Art in London

 
Between 30th October and 8 November, London`s leading Asian art dealers, auctioneers, and prominent cultural institutions are presenting Asian art: paintings, antiques, ceramics, glass, and other exciting artefacts. It is part of a programme of happenings, called Asian Art in London, and creates a perfect opportunity to get acquainted with artistic tastes of India; Japan; Vietnam; Korea; the Himalayas…and more. I am in front of Phung Pham`s `Artist`s Model` - lacquer on wood. I am wearing a dress by Tory Burch, and snakeskin boots from Sergio Rossi. I bought this python handbag in Singapore.
I visited one of the galleries - Guy Peppiatt/Stephen Ongpin Gallery – for an afternoon of art talk, followed by ambassador's reception.
Raquelle Azran, who curated a truly amazing exhibition at the gallery, talked us through habits of harmony in Vietnamese fine art. She pointed out that space and time unite in the artists` impressions of the world.
She mentioned that the spiritual world doesn`t collide with physical one, but co-exists happily. Here is `March of Time` by Dinh thi tham Poong.
And highlighted the works of art that showcased harmony of historical Asian tradition with modern Western culture, as evidenced by the work of Vu Thu Hien - above.
The artists use old techniques, like lacquer on wood - example above - but make references to modern subjects in their work, to emphasise their dialog with the past. This is yet another harmony that Raquelle was keen for us to understand and appreciate. Watercolour on handmade paper is another traditional technique, which was showcased at the gallery in its full glory.
The talk was followed by a reception hosted by H.E. Ambassador of Vietnam to the United Kingdom and Ireland Nguyen Van Thao. It was clear that both, the ambassador and the curator had a deep appreciation of Vietnamese artists and they succeeded in bringing Vietnamese art to life at this sophisticated gathering.

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