Story: Dam Duc Vu
Photos: Dung BHD

Explore the artistic legacy of Pham Luc through his vibrant spring paintings.

Sacredness arises from the simplest elements, with each brushstroke reflecting the artist’s devotion and evoking aspirations and truth. Taking time to reflect on Pham Luc’s paintings can evoke warmth, drawing viewers into the intimate atmosphere of their homeland, their roots, and the rich tapestry of human existence.

Everyday items are depicted in a still life

These paintings remind us that spring is not only marked by physical changes but also by spiritual awareness and emotion. Pham Luc’s Tet paintings are not just visually striking and beautiful but also profoundly meaningful. As a prominent figure in Vietnamese fine arts, his work carries a distinct personal touch, often inspired by the culture, customs, and daily life surrounding spring festivities.

The springtime landscapes in his paintings, spanning highlands to lowlands, brim with folk elements and traditional charm. Familiar figures and scenes hold profound meanings, guiding viewers toward reflection and insight. Each fluid, effortless stroke mirrors a spring melody, echoing symbols of vitality. Tet represents spring, a sense of continuity.

Pham Luc often uses strong colors

Pham Luc often captures authentic images that embody the spirit of spring—children at play and bustling highland markets where harmonious bonds between humans and nature foster a sense of unity and humanitarian values. He portrays spring through serene depictions of farmers in peaceful natural settings. These paintings are not only visually captivating but also resonate with pride and love for the nation, encouraging introspection and a deeper connection to one’s roots and truths during nature’s transformative moments.

With his free-flowing brushwork, Pham Luc captures scenes that are both familiar and unique. The Tet atmosphere in his paintings is vibrant and full of Vietnamese spirit. His spring colors blend seamlessly with the soul, inspiring faith in human connection and love. Notably, he often pairs images of women with spring, crafting paintings rich in emotion. At various ages, these women symbolize spring and humanity, infusing new life and illuminating spaces with their gentle, pure beauty. The women in his paintings represent the heart of the family, embodying the “spring fragrance” that brings warmth and harmony to the home.

Originally a military artist, Pham Luc often depicts soldiers in everyday settings, especially during Tet, reflecting a longing for lasting peace and freedom. In his flower market scenes, he uses vivid color palettes and tender brushstrokes to evoke authenticity, drawing viewers into the lively atmosphere. Beyond being places of commerce, these markets become spaces of emotion, reunion, joy, and heartfelt wishes.

Pham Luc’s Tet paintings are full of vitality

Pham Luc not only captures the vibrant hues of flowers but also portrays people with glowing expressions. Sellers, buyers, and joyful children come together in scenes that feel both real and symbolic. He frequently highlights simple details—bicycles, modest flower baskets, traditional four-panel dresses, and ao dai—emphasizing the cultural essence of Vietnamese life in his art.

In quieter moments, the springtime emotions in his still-life paintings emerge through carefully chosen items specific to Tet, such as flower vases, five-fruit trays, banh chung, and red calligraphy scrolls. His use of vibrant, contrasting colors creates a harmonious balance, evoking a bright atmosphere. These works capture the essence of spring, conveying not only its freshness but also the joy and hope for better days ahead.

Pham Luc’s artistic legacy would be incomplete without his zodiac paintings, which honor and expand the tradition of Tet artwork. Their charm lies in their simplicity and meaningful details. He portrays zodiac animals not only in a traditional style but also with creative stylization, imbuing each with a unique character.

To welcome the flourishing spring, his brushwork is bold and dynamic, blending strokes and colors with complete freedom. Through his artistic vision, each zodiac animal becomes vivid and relatable, deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture and carrying messages of vitality for the new year. More than mere decorations, Pham Luc’s zodiac paintings are artistic explorations that bridge the nation’s cultural past and future, where compassion is the source of lasting strength.

Paintings from the artist’s family, collector Tran Ngoc Lam, and other art collectors.