The "Thang Long-Hanoi Calligraphy Exhibition" opened on November 3 at the Temple of Literature, with the theme "Fragrance of Thang Long," celebrating Vietnam's Cultural Heritage Day (November 23, 2024).

The exhibition, which runs until December 3, highlights the unique cultural essence of Thang Long – Hanoi, the land rich with a thousand years of heritage, as expressed through the art of calligraphy.

The exhibition's works focus on timeless verses and writings about Thang Long – Hanoi, as well as the moral and philosophical teachings of renowned historical figures, including King Le Thanh Tong, the great teacher Chu Van An, and numerous scholars like Nguyen Trai, Truong Han Sieu, and Nguyen Du.

Out of hundreds of entries, 36 outstanding works by 18 artists from across Vietnam were selected for display, including contributions from two young female calligraphers. Most of the works are written in traditional script styles, with several pieces showcasing innovative and bold interpretations in both letterform and layout.

"Artistically, the works reveal the authors' mastery and harmony, and through them, the calligraphers express their mature, distinctive styles," said Curator Xuan Nhu Vu Thanh Tung.

"Some pieces introduce unique and novel approaches in the presentation of characters and composition, illustrating the diversity and untapped potential of this traditional art. Calligraphy, though steeped in convention, remains elegant, balanced, and deeply meaningful."

The Thang Long-Hanoi Calligraphy Exhibition, an annual event at the historic Temple of Literature, presents a fresh theme each year, said Le Xuan Kieu, Director of the Temple of Literature's Cultural and Scientific Activities Center.

"The exhibition is a space for calligraphers and calligraphy enthusiasts from all over the country to come together, fostering the vibrancy of calligraphy in today's cultural life," he said.

In addition to the calligraphy displays, the exhibition features 365 ancient scripts extracted from Khuyen Hoc Van (the Encouragement of Learning) released by King Le Thanh Tong, one of Vietnam's great medieval writers. The writing serves as a reminder to heed the advice of our forebears and to pursue learning daily.