Tree of Virtue features a new series of fifteen large-scale paintings alongside two ceramic sculptures, the result of over two years of work since his first solo show at Mo Art Space.
Hoang Thien Phuc was born and raised in La Gi—a small coastal village in Binh Thuan province. He graduated from the Ho Chi Minh University of Fine Arts in 2020, then ventured into the bustling art scene of Ho Chi Minh City. After a transformative period, he returned to La Gi to embark on a new artistic journey, engaged in deep introspection on the symbiotic relationship between his artistic practice and the shifting natural and cultural landscape of his homeland.
As he observed the gradual transformation of this once-tranquil fishing town, Phuc embraced an unconventional methodology: beginning his painting process through the medium of writing. He started by composing poems, reflective notes, and occasional fictional narratives, using these literary explorations as conceptual foundations for his visual works. Each painting thus becomes a deeply personal expression, embedding layers of meaning that reflect the artist’s inner dialogue and response to his environment.
The relationship between humanity and nature, both material and spiritual, has always been one of deep interdependence. Yet, this relationship has increasingly become one of coercion, with humans naively and recklessly believing they can control and test Nature's endurance. The naive idea of “Nature will make its way back” is often used to describe the resilience of plants and ecosystems after catastrophic events. It reflects the natural world’s enduring ability to regenerate and adapt, even in the face of destruction or human interference. To Phuc, these are trees of virtue—surviving the conditions imposed upon them by humans. And yet, despite this, they continue to follow their ancient path of coexistence, offering blossoms, bearing fruit, and providing shade, in stark contrast to humanity’s betrayal.
The exhibition will officially open to the public from October 11, 2024, until November 24, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Tuesday through Sunday.
