An exhibition of modern Vietnamese art is now being held at the Bunkamura Gallery in Shibuya, Tokyo.

"Mask" (1999) by Vu Dan Tan

Vietnam has achieved dramatic economic growth since the launch of the Doi Moi reform program in 1986, and the art scene has been making phenomenal progress as well.

Drawn into a whirlpool of information from abroad, Vietnamese artists have struggled to find their own identity and style while using traditional techniques. Having been under the influence of France during the colonial period, many Western art techniques have been adopted in the country, resulting in some very original work.

One of the most popular materials used in Vietnamese art is lacquer. In many countries, lacquer is used in the field of crafts, but in Vietnam, it is used for painting.

"Next to the Green Plains" (1999) by Thanh Chuong

Aside from lacquer paintings, the exhibition includes drawings on handmade rice paper, paintings on silk, collages made with stones and seashells, and other types of works. There are no limits to what the artists of Vietnam will use for their creations.

One of the artists participating in this exhibition, Vu Dan Tan, uses not only traditional materials but also natural materials, such as bamboo and tree bark, and garbage, including empty cigarette packages, old newspapers and magazines.

A total of 50 pieces by 10 artists are on display at the exhibition.