Vietnamese traditional painting in the lacquer technique dates back to the 1930s. This art form is currently losing its popularity, but Japanese artist Ando Saeko (b. 1968) has brought it back to life.
Ando Saeko
Ando Saeko discovered Vietnamese lacquer painting and began studying it in 1995. Nearly 30 years later, she’s globally recognized for her unique style, blending traditional Vietnamese techniques with her own innovations. Her works reflect Zen, nature, and Japanese aesthetics. As a researcher, she also shares her insights at international conferences.
According to Saeko, Vietnamese lacquer is unique and distinctive. It is considered fine art.
Saeko is currently living in Hoi An, where she finds inspiration in the sea, rivers, and fields' inherent vitality. The opera Princess Anio, which debuted in Ha Noi in 2023 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Vietnam - Japan ties, included Saeko's lacquer artwork as its visual focus.
Saeko's lacquer artwork
According to Ando Saeko, the 400-year relationship between Vietnam and Japan was shown in the lacquer painting featuring Princess Ngoc Hoa as the main character and boats that represent Japanese merchants to Hoi An.
Translated by H.Thu
