Vietnam in the post-war years, the old streets of Hanoi and Saigon in the early 1970s, and the simple rhythms of life during the country's early years of economic reform are vividly brought to life through 27 remarkable photographic works by three French artists at the exhibition “Vietnam Crossroads”, which opened on the afternoon of June 13th.

“Instead of just harvesting the fruits to sell at the market, now I also ‘sell’ the shade beneath the trees, the hands-on experience of bending branches to pluck the fruits, and the human life stories deeply intertwined with the lifespan of the trees”..., shared old farmer Le Thong, the owner of an orchard with over 200 trees in Thuan Loc Village, Binh Dien Commune.

Workshops such as pottery making, picture coloring, and “healing”-themed cafés (spaces designed to promote relaxation and emotional well-being) have become increasingly common in Hue in recent years. This trend reflects young people's growing desire to achieve mental balance amid academic and work-related pressures, as well as a lifestyle closely tied to social media. Beginning as an emotional concept, “healing” has gradually given rise to a distinct service market targeting young customers in Hue.

Painter Mai Chau and the late painter Than Van Huy are two prominent figures in Hue's fine arts scene, leaving behind a legacy of works deeply imbued with Zen philosophy and a profound love for their homeland, Buddhism, and humanity. Their paintings possess a compelling depth, prompting viewers to slow down, reflect, and find a sense of serenity amidst life.

Thanks to the application of artificial intelligence (AI), many of Hue’s heritage values are being retold by young people in an entirely new “language”. Historic structures and symbolic cultural icons, long associated with an atmosphere of antiquity and quiet elegance, are now being brought to life through digital creations, contributing to taking Hue Ancient Capital’s image closer to young audiences.

Alongside the Hue heritage complex, the French architectural works that remain today are seen as part of the soul of Hue’s urban landscape. Through the lens of sketching, these structures appear to take on a new look and a different kind of “life” in the eyes of artists and architects.

The culture and way of life in the highlands possess a unique charm. This appeal comes not only from the distinct customs, cuisine, and lifestyle, but also from the unique stories of the mountains and forests preserved by ethnic minority communities, as well as their cultural identities passed down through generations.

By preserving Co Tu cultural traditions in everyday life and integrating indigenous values into visitor experiences, residents of Doi Village have carved out a distinctive path for community-based tourism in the western area of Hue City. The village is gradually emerging as a favorite destination for travelers seeking community-based tourism activities in Khe Tre highland area.

In the familiar space of schools, tuong - a traditional stage art form once thought to be “hard to approach” for young people - is being brought to life through hands-on experiences. Through makeup sessions, lessons, and opportunities to explore and feel the values of tuong firsthand, this approach is helping younger generations grow closer to cultural heritage and creating new ways to incorporate traditional culture into schools.

In the depth of Hue culture, gardens are not merely green zones, acting as supporting elements for architecture, but a constituent factor shaping the urban identity. Hue is famous for the Perfume River, Mount Ngu, the Citadel, royal tombs, pagodas, and noble residences, but Hue is also well known for its gardens. In Hue, gardens soften architecture, calm the everyday life, deepen poetry, and create a unique urban style: a garden city, a city of poetry, the harmony between man and nature, or “an urban poem” as said by M’Bow, former Director-General of UNESCO.

From rough, shapeless wood blocks, through a chisel and skillful hands, Mr. Cu Dai, residing in Ta Ay village, Trung Son commune, has breathed life into wood carvings, making them unique.

Besides the highly appreciated works of visual art, over years, Truc Chi has introduced to the public the line of souvenir paintings and the products that favor applied art.