Art exhibition explores healing and reflection in hospital setting

The exhibition brings together artists from different generations, including Can Manh Tuong, Nguyen Quoc Hung, Tao Thi Thu Huong, Le Thanh Binh, Nguyen Trong Tai, Vu Thai Binh, Dang Thi Thu Hien, Luong Thu Ha, Hoang Tuan Can and Tran Nam Long.

Their works range from depictions of everyday life to interpretations of natural landscapes. While varying in style, technique and medium, the collection shares a focus on tranquility, using restrained color palettes and gentle visual rhythms to encourage contemplation and connection.

Can Manh Tuong presents lacquer paintings characterized by structured compositions, warm tones and narrative depth. Nguyen Quoc Hung contributes abstract still-life works in which familiar objects such as vases and kettles are reduced to essential forms, emphasizing line, shape and spatial relationships.

Dr. Erwan Debuc (L), Hanoi French Hospital’s general director, congratulates artists at the showcase. Photo courtesy of Hanoi French Hospital

Artists Tao Thi Thu Huong, Dang Thi Thu Hien and Luong Thu Ha explore female subjects through soft lines and muted colors. Le Thanh Binh combines surrealist elements with classical oil-painting techniques, while Nguyen Trong Tai depicts ballet dancers in motion using oil and pastel.

Vu Thai Binh showcases watercolor paintings on traditional Dó (poonah) paper, drawing inspiration from natural scenery. Hoang Tuan Can’s landscapes feature vivid colors and a naïve style that conveys a sense of optimism and clarity.

The youngest participant, 21-year-old Tran Nam Long, who is hearing-impaired, contributes a series of sketches documenting Hanoi’s streets and urban life through detailed observation.

Speaking on behalf of the participating artists, Huong said the exhibition aims to provide emotional support for patients and their families.

“Bringing art into a hospital environment does more than enhance the surroundings; it also serves as a valuable source of emotional support,” she said. “We hope that the colors and stories conveyed through these paintings will help ease patients’ and their families’ anxieties while giving them renewed strength in their journey toward recovery.”

The exhibition opening drew the curator and participating artists. Photo courtesy of Hanoi French Hospital

Dr. Erwan Debuc, general director of Hanoi French Hospital, described the exhibition as a meeting point between medicine and art.

He said displaying artworks in a healthcare setting can help create a more welcoming atmosphere, reduce stress and provide moments of calm for patients, visitors and medical staff.

“For now, I still cannot prescribe a painting in place of an antibiotic, but art, in its own way, also contributes to healing,” he said. “This is part of a vision we deeply cherish: building a place that opens its doors to the city, to culture, and to Vietnamese society.”

The exhibition is open to the public free of charge through Aug. 31 at Hanoi French Hospital, 1 Phuong Mai Street, Kim Lien Ward, Hanoi.