'Vietnam's Soul' arts exhibition inaugurated in Katara

The "Vietnam's Soul” arts exhibition, open at Katara Cultural Village's Building 47 until September 20, features 11 paintings by both emerging and established Vietnamese artists.Katara is organising this exhibition in co-operation with the embassy of Vietnam in Qatar.Through diverse artistic styles ranging from impressionism to realism and stylised realism, the artists present a fresh and inspiring vision of Vietnam’s culture, its people, and its landscapes.The works harmoniously blend tradition and modernity, resembling silent stories told through colours, shapes, and emotions, inviting visitors into a vibrant contemplative space.The exhibition was inaugurated on Tuesday by Katara deputy general manager and human resources director Saif Saad al-Dosari, in the presence of Vietnam ambassador Nguyen Huy Hiep, a number of other ambassadors, representatives of diplomatic missions, and cultural and art enthusiasts.Nguyen said that the exhibition brings together a diverse collection of paintings by three talented Vietnamese artists from different generations.One of them, Nguyen Minh Son, is a master of Impressionist landscape painting and one of Vietnam’s leading contemporary artists.His works capture the quiet beauty of the Vietnamese countryside, with vibrant colours and bold brushstrokes that reflect both emotion and nostalgia."I believe these paintings go far beyond visual beauty,” ambassador Nguyen said. "They capture the soul and essence of Vietnam, reflecting the resilience, warmth, and creativity of the Vietnamese people.”"Each piece carries with it a story about our landscapes, our culture, and our way of life, offering visitors a unique perspective on how Vietnam sees itself and the world,” the envoy added."However, this exhibition is not only about art. Its significance lies in its role as a cultural bridge,” he continued. "In diplomacy, cultural exchange is one of the most effective ways to foster mutual understanding and trust between nations.”"By sharing the stories and spirit of Vietnam through these artworks, we hope to bring the people of Qatar closer to Vietnam, and to deepen the bonds of friendship between our two countries," Nguyen stressed.The envoy stated that the title of the exhibition, "Vietnam's Soul”, was chosen carefully."It reflects our aspiration to present to the audience not just images, but the true spirit of our nation, our love for peace, our respect for diversity, and our enduring optimism for the future,” Nguyen explained. "This spirit, we hope, will resonate with everyone who visits the exhibition, regardless of background or nationality."He thanked Katara for providing such a prestigious venue for the exhibition."Katara is not only a cultural landmark of Qatar, but also a symbol of the country’s commitment to promoting dialogue and understanding among civilisations," the envoy said."My hope is that visitors to the exhibition will leave not only with an appreciation of the paintings but also with a deeper connection to Vietnam, its people, and its enduring spirit,” he said. "I believe this exhibition will open the door for more cultural exchanges in the future, and perhaps even inspire friends in Qatar to visit Vietnam, to experience firsthand the country behind these beautiful works of art."