Do Xuan Doan

(Vietnamese, born 1937)

A Busy Day in the Countryside

Footnotes

Provenance
Galerie Nguyen - Ben Thanh Art & Frame, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Acquired from the above by the present owner in 2012


Do Xuan Doan was born in Hanoi in 1937. His multifaceted career spanned various artistic styles, reflecting his versatility and commitment to pushing boundaries.

Doan studied at the Hanoi School of Fine Arts, graduating in 1961. His formative years coincided with the Vietnam War, during which he joined the army. This experience undoubtedly influenced his artistic expression, infusing it with resilience and social consciousness.

Defying easy categorization, he seamlessly moved between Realism, Expressionism, Surrealism, and Abstraction. As one of the founders and leaders of the Young Artists Association in 1966, he challenged conventional norms in Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City), with the group seeking to explore new artistic horizons.

This impressive and large lacquer panel, "A Busy Day in the Countryside", captures rural life in Northern Vietnam. The panel teems with life—a bustling scene where people engage in various activities. Some harvest crops, while others converse or transport goods by boat. The composition reflects community and activity, and the palette is rich and diverse. Lush greens depict the landscape, contrasting with bright red flowers. Earthy tones evoke the rural setting, while pops of colour convey energy. Through intricate details, Doan portrays harmony between humanity and nature.

Do Xuan Doan's contributions to Vietnamese culture and his role in shaping the Young Artists Association remain significant. His contemporary lacquer works continue to inspire and resonate with viewers, and his journey exemplifies creativity, resilience, and a commitment to pushing artistic boundaries. His legacy endures, reminding us of the power of expression and the beauty of capturing everyday life through visual art.