An exhibit called “New Form 1”, which is running in Hanoi until Dec 6, features local artists’ experimental contemporary sculpture works as an attempt to make the art part of locals’ spiritual lives.

The exhibit, which is running at Mai Gallery, 12 Quan Su, showcases a group of artists’ works in the initial phase of the New Form project.

The exhibit is the artists’ collective efforts to actually turn the works into part of locals’ lives and contemporary architectural space by getting visitors to better appreciate their grace. It also aims to give sculpture the position it deserves in the local art scene.

“We were under the misconception that we knew a lot, but actually we don’t. Thus the “New form” exhibit means returning to our selves. The return may be tough, but if we’re on the right track, I’m positive that some local artists will sooner or later establish their names in the regional art arena,” said sculptor Dao Chau Hai, who helps carry out the project.

According to veteran local sculptors, there remains a long way to go before Vietnamese sculpture can join the world’s contemporary flow. The New Space sculpture exhibit in 1997 was an initial attempt by local artists to liberate the country’s sculpture, but no other efforts have been made since.