From Van Hoa Newspaper, 27 February 2025, Reporting: Phuong Anh
VHO – For the first time, a large-scale exhibition under the patronage of the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism (VHTTDL) will be held under the name Vietnam International Art Fair & Exhibition. Taking place from July 25-29, 2025, at the International Center For Exhibition (ICE) in Hanoi, this prestigious event promises to be a highlight in showcasing Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage and artistic talent to the world.
The exhibition is jointly organized by the Vietnam Cultural Arts Exhibition Center, Art Box Exhibition Limited (Hong Kong), Khoi Viet Art Company Limited, and CHỌN de l’art Art Company.
Mr. Lau Ching Nam – Vincent Lau, Fair Director of the Vietnam International Art Exhibition, spoke with Văn Hóa about this highly anticipated event.
P.V: For the first time, the Vietnam International Art Exhibition will be held under the patronage of the Ministry of Culture, Sport, and Tourism. Could you share some insights on the scale and significance of this exhibition?
Vincent Lau: The Vietnam International Art Exhibition is a significant event that marks Vietnam’s growing presence on the global art scene.
Under the patronage of the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, this exhibition boasts an impressive scale, attracting international galleries, art institutions, and collectors from around the world. It provides a platform for both renowned and emerging artists to showcase their works across a diverse range of artistic disciplines, including painting, sculpture, photography, and digital art.
This year’s exhibition will welcome a large number of international artists from New York, London, Tokyo, Seoul, Hong Kong, Beijing, Taipei, and major art cities in Vietnam, such as Hanoi, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City.
By connecting the global and Vietnamese art communities, the Vietnam International Art Exhibition not only enhances cultural exchange but also positions Vietnam as an important destination for art evaluation and trade.
“The Vietnam International Art Exhibition is a large-scale and promising event, as it is the first international-level art fair of its kind in Vietnam. It not only showcases a wide range of valuable artworks but also serves as a significant milestone in revitalizing Vietnam’s fine arts market.
Through this exhibition, Vietnamese artists will have the opportunity to exchange experiences, connect with international artists, collectors, and clients; attract tourists to Vietnam; and more importantly, promote the development of the cultural industry in the fine arts sector.”
(Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, Ta Quang Dong)
P.V: Why is the Vietnam International Art Exhibition considered a Cultural and Art Festival?
Unlike a traditional art fair, the Vietnam International Art Exhibition is a celebration of culture and creativity. Throughout the event, visitors will experience a dynamic combination of exhibitions, live performances, expert-led discussions, and special art programs.
This multifaceted approach transforms the exhibition into an art festival, where people can immerse themselves in diverse artistic expressions, engage directly with artists, and explore Vietnam’s rich artistic heritage alongside contemporary global trends.
Additionally, through workshops, forums, and cultural displays, the exhibition fosters an interactive experience beyond commercial art transactions. It acts as a cultural bridge, allowing artists, collectors, and the public to connect and exchange ideas in a vibrant and enriching atmosphere.
P.V: The exhibition not only serves as a platform for global artists to showcase their work but also promotes Vietnam’s unique artistic identity. What is your perspective on the position of Vietnamese fine arts on the world art map?
Vietnamese fine arts have a long and rich history, deeply rooted in tradition yet constantly evolving to embrace contemporary influences. In recent years, Vietnamese artists have gained significant recognition in the international art scene, with their works featured in major auctions, exhibitions, and museum collections worldwide.
However, there remains vast potential for Vietnamese art to gain further recognition and integration into the global art market. The Vietnam International Art Exhibition plays a crucial role in elevating the country’s artistic identity by providing an international stage where Vietnamese artists can showcase their works alongside global talents.
By fostering these interactions, we aim to highlight the uniqueness of Vietnamese visual arts—from distinctive aesthetics and techniques to profound cultural narratives—ensuring that Vietnam’s artistic voice is heard on the world stage.
P.V: How can this exhibition be transformed into an annual event?
Establishing the Vietnam International Art Exhibition as an annual event requires strong institutional support and active participation from both domestic and international stakeholders. With the backing of the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, we have laid the groundwork for long-term growth.
To sustain the exhibition annually, we are focusing on building strategic partnerships with galleries, collectors, and cultural organizations worldwide. In addition, we are expanding the program to attract more artists and art enthusiasts by enhancing visitor experiences and providing more business opportunities for exhibitors, and increasing engagement and participation through continuous program development and innovative exhibition formats
The long-term success of the exhibition also depends on Vietnam’s growing art market. As interest in art investment rises in the region, we believe that a strong and consistent international platform will further drive growth, making the exhibition an eagerly awaited annual event.
P.V: What are your thoughts on the Vietnamese art market, particularly concerning issues such as fake and counterfeit artworks? Does Vietnam currently have a structured art market, and what additional elements are needed to establish one?
Vietnam’s art market is still in its developmental stage. Although the country has a rich artistic heritage and many talented artists, the presence of counterfeit artworks has posed significant challenges to the market’s credibility.
Issues related to provenance, authenticity, and transparency have been widely discussed, and addressing these concerns is essential for establishing a mature art market.
To develop a structured and reliable art market, Vietnam needs to enhance several key aspects: a transparent and professional authentication system to verify the originality of artworks; stronger legal frameworks and regulations to protect artists and buyers from fraudulent transactions; a dynamic network of auction houses, galleries, and collectors operating under international standards; and increased awareness and education for collectors to foster a more knowledgeable and sophisticated art investment culture.
By implementing these measures, Vietnam can build a trustworthy and sustainable art ecosystem, encouraging both domestic and international participation.
P.V: How will the Vietnam International Art Exhibition contribute to shaping and strengthening the Vietnamese art market?
The exhibition aims to shape and strengthen Vietnam’s art market by providing a prestigious platform for artists and galleries, helping to establish market credibility and set professional standards for art transactions in Vietnam.
Through collaborations with international art organizations and experts, the exhibition introduces best practices in authentication, management, and sales transparency. It also attracts collectors, investors, and industry professionals, fostering relationships that are crucial for the market’s long-term growth.
Moreover, the presence of global galleries and artists at the exhibition not only raises presentation standards but also stimulates demand for Vietnamese art on an international level.
By continuously refining its structure and expanding its reach, we aim to contribute significantly to Vietnam’s development as a recognized and reputable partner in the global art market.
“Vietnam is proud to have a deep and diverse cultural and artistic heritage, a heritage that deserves to be shared with the international community. The Vietnam International Art Exhibition not only provides a foundation for global artists to showcase their work but also promotes Vietnam’s unique artistic identity. Our goal is to turn this exhibition into an annual tradition that attracts both famous and emerging artists from around the world.”
(Director of Vietnam International Art Exhibition Vincent Lau)
