By aussiematesvietnam Experiencing Vietnam’s Contemporary Art Scene: A Hidden Gem for Aussie Travellers
G’day fellow travellers! Aussie Mates here, coming to you from the bustling streets of Vietnam, my home for nearly two decades now. Tracy and I have been lucky enough to explore every nook and cranny of this amazing country, and let me tell you, it never ceases to amaze us. Today, I’m excited to share one of Vietnam’s most underrated treasures – the Museum of Contemporary Art Vietnam, often referred to as MOCAVIET.
After living here for 20 years, I’ve watched Vietnam’s art scene blossom like a lotus flower, transforming from traditional crafts to a vibrant contemporary movement that rivals galleries I’ve visited back in Sydney or Melbourne. For my fellow Aussie boomers planning a trip to Vietnam, this is one spot you definitely shouldn’t skip if you want to understand the soul of modern Vietnam.
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The Evolution of Contemporary Art in Vietnam
Before we dive into the museum itself, it’s worth understanding a bit about Vietnamese contemporary art. Unlike our relatively stable artistic development in Australia, Vietnam’s contemporary art scene emerged from a complex history of colonization, war, and economic revolution.
Back in the 1990s, when Tracy and I first visited Vietnam (long before we decided to call it home), the art scene was still dominated by traditional crafts and socialist realism. Fast forward to today, and you’ll find bold, experimental works that tackle everything from rapid urbanization to environmental concerns and cultural identity.
Vietnamese artists have been increasingly recognized internationally, with many exhibiting in galleries across Asia, Europe, and even Australia. Just last year, Tracy and I spotted works by Vietnamese artists at a gallery in Brisbane – a real full-circle moment!
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Inside the Museum of Contemporary Art Vietnam
Located in the heart of Hanoi, MOCAVIET opened its doors in 2012, though it’s undergone several transformations since then. The building itself is a brilliant blend of colonial architecture and modern design elements – a perfect metaphor for Vietnam’s artistic journey.
The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a flood of natural light streaming through cleverly designed skylights, illuminating works that range from massive installations to delicate multimedia pieces. The museum spans three floors, each dedicated to different aspects of contemporary Vietnamese art.
One thing I appreciate as someone not always confident in art interpretation (Tracy’s the real art buff between us) is that the museum provides English descriptions that give context without being pretentious. No need to feel intimidated if you’re not an art expert – the museum welcomes visitors of all backgrounds.
Must-See Exhibitions and Collections
The permanent collection at MOCAVIET features works from the 1990s to present day, showcasing the evolution of Vietnamese contemporary art through periods of economic opening and globalization. Here are a few standout sections:
- The “Đổi Mới Generation” exhibit features artists who came of age during Vietnam’s economic reforms of the late 1980s and early 1990s.
- The “Urban Perspectives” collection explores Vietnam’s rapid urbanization through photography, video installations, and mixed media.
- “Echoes of War” presents powerful reflections on Vietnam’s complex history of conflict and reconciliation.
- “New Materiality” showcases innovative uses of traditional Vietnamese materials like lacquer and silk in contemporary contexts.
During our last visit, Tracy was particularly moved by an installation that used recycled materials from the Mekong Delta to comment on environmental degradation. It reminded us both of similar concerns back home in Australia around the Great Barrier Reef.
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Practical Tips for Aussie Visitors
If you’re planning to visit MOCAVIET during your Vietnam trip, here are some insider tips from a long-term expat:
- The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, but closed on Mondays.
- Entrance fees are quite reasonable at around 120,000 VND (about $8 AUD) – a bargain compared to what you’d pay at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney!
- Consider hiring an English-speaking guide (available at the entrance) to get deeper insights into the works. These young art students have fascinating perspectives and speak excellent English.
- The best time to visit is weekday mornings when the museum is less crowded. Avoid weekends if possible, as local families often visit then.
- The museum café on the rooftop offers spectacular views of Hanoi and serves an excellent Vietnamese coffee – the perfect spot for a breather after taking in all that art.
Pro tip: After your museum visit, Tracy and I recommend exploring the nearby art galleries in the Old Quarter. Many emerging artists have small exhibition spaces here, and you might find an affordable piece to bring home as a meaningful souvenir.
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Understanding Contemporary Vietnamese Art as an Aussie
As Australians, we might find ourselves connecting with Vietnamese contemporary art in surprising ways. Both our countries have complex relationships with colonialism, rapid modernization, and environmental challenges. We’ve often found ourselves recognizing parallels between artistic expressions here and movements back home.
One thing Tracy and I have noticed is how Vietnamese artists often blend traditional techniques with contemporary themes. You might see ancient lacquer techniques applied to urban landscapes, or traditional silk painting depicting modern social issues. This blend of old and new, traditional and contemporary, feels familiar to how Indigenous Australian artists have revolutionized contemporary art.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself emotionally connected to works that speak a visual language that somehow feels universal despite the cultural differences. That’s the magic of contemporary art – it transcends borders while remaining deeply rooted in local experience.
Beyond the Museum: Vietnam’s Wider Art Scene
While MOCAVIET is a highlight, it’s just one part of Vietnam’s thriving art ecosystem. If you have time during your visit, Tracy and I also recommend checking out:
- The Vietnam Fine Arts Museum for a more comprehensive historical context
- Manzi Art Space in Hanoi for cutting-edge exhibitions in a charming colonial villa
- San Art in Ho Chi Minh City, founded by internationally acclaimed artist Dinh Q. Lê
- The biennial Vietnam International Exhibition, if your timing aligns (next one in 2024)
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Final Thoughts: Why Boomers Should Experience Vietnamese Contemporary Art
For many of us in the boomer generation, travel is about more than just ticking off tourist attractions. It’s about gaining new perspectives and understanding different cultures on a deeper level. Contemporary art offers a window into the soul of modern Vietnam that you simply won’t get from visiting only historical sites or beautiful beaches.
Tracy and I have brought numerous friends and family from Australia to MOCAVIET over the years, and without exception, they’ve all left with a richer understanding of Vietnam than they had before. Some have even become collectors of Vietnamese art, starting with small purchases from galleries we’ve introduced them to.
So when planning your Vietnam itinerary, pencil in at least a half-day for MOCAVIET. Between the thought-provoking exhibitions, the lovely café, and the nearby galleries, it’s a cultural experience that goes beyond the typical tourist trail – and isn’t that what travel is all about?
Until next time, mates! If you see Tracy and me at the museum café during your visit, be sure to say g’day – the first Vietnamese coffee is on us!