Calligraphy arts in Vietnam, though not as prevalent as in the Feudal period, are still popular art forms nowadays, especially during Vietnam’s most famous holiday – Tet. Head down below as we go on our quest to discover what it is and where you can buy or practice the art.
Brief Introduction to Calligraphy Arts in Vietnam
What Is Calligraphy Arts?
Calligraphy in Vietnamese is “Thu Phap,” roughly translated as “the rule of writing.” But the artist doesn’t simply jot words down; he has to embed his soul and feelings into the piece while assuring each character looks beautiful. This is why calligraphy has been treasured since its introduction.
To practice calligraphy, one will need the “four treasures of the study”: ink brushes, black ink, papers, and an inkstone. Using these simple tools, the artist will work freehand, guided by his mastery and inspiration only. This is where calligraphy arts in Vietnam differ from their Western counterparts, which employ an array of measuring tools.
Some may say that calligraphy arts in Vietnam are similar to Chinese. This is true, considering that this art form originates from China. We used to use the Sino-Vietnamese characters (Han Nom), so many calligraphy masters still work with them. Yet, as the modern Vietnamese script became our national writing system, calligraphy arts in Vietnam are now a harmonious marriage of the East and the West, of modernity and tradition.
See Who Invented the Vietnamese Alphabet?
The Meaning of Calligraphy Arts in Vietnam
In Vietnam, calligraphy is one of the most treasured art forms. People believe that each character shows the calligrapher’s feelings, and conveys his inner voice. It is also often associated with virtues like patience and intellect.
Calligraphy becomes especially desirable on the Tet holiday because of the Vietnamese Tet tradition of calligraphy giving. It is believed that getting a piece of calligraphy from a scholar means luck and expresses the owner’s fondness for knowledge.
Where to Get Calligraphy Arts in Vietnam
Calligraphy is a popular choice as travelers’ Vietnamese gifts for family and friends. You can find it at big markets, or you can check out the shops and events listed below:
Calligraphy Shop
Thu Phap Viet
Address: 85/27, Tran Ke Xuong Street, Ward 7, Phu Nhuan District, Ho Chi Minh City
Thu Phap Chu Viet
Address:
68/13, Ut Tich Street, Ward 4, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City
38, Ngoc Hoi Street, Hoang Mai District, Hanoi
Truong Thinh Art
Address: 137, 223B Alley, Chien Thang Street, Ha Dong District, Hanoi
Calligraphy Event
Yearly, around the end of January and the beginning of February, in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, two of the country’s biggest calligraphy fairs take place. There is no entrance fee, yet you get to witness various young and old calligraphy masters at work. You can buy a piece of calligraphy made right there, or buy a pre-made one that’s just as beautiful.
In Ho Chi Minh City, it’s held at either the Cultural House of Youth (4, Pham Ngoc Thach Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1) or the Labour – Culture Palace (55B, Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1).
In Hanoi, it’s always held at the Temple of Literature, usually during the first days of the Lunar New Year.
Calligraphy Workshop
The Cultural House of Youth
Address: 4, Pham Ngoc Thach Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Duration: 14 classes from 6 PM – 8.30 PM (Tuesday – Thursday – Saturday)
Fee: VND 800,000
Key Takeaway on Calligraphy Arts in Vietnam
Calligraphy arts in Vietnam is a traditional art form that has stood the test of time and become an integral part of the Tet holiday. It shows Vietnamese’s love for both beauty and knowledge and is a living piece of Vietnam’s cultural development throughout the course of history. We hope our guide has helped you understand more about this cultural gem. Stay tuned for more articles on Vietnamese culture and travel coming on our Vietnam Travel Guide!
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