Creative

Nguyen Bao Ha – Abstract Expressionist from Hanoi, Vietnam

Nguyen Bao Ha’s abstract expressionist work offers a refreshingly alternative view of Hanoi’s streetscapes. Mondrian’s angular lines and palette inspire Nguyen. But unlike the Dutch painter who could not tolerate any flaw, Nguyen takes pleasure in showing the disheveled aspects of his city. Instead of focusing on massive development around him he is more sensitive to the small changes that are often overlooked. 

Ha uses strong geometric lines, yet conveys an inherent sense of fragility and instability. By using multiple perspectives, he creates an effect which offers the viewers both aerial and frontal view of a scene. The sense of movement is heightened by his use of colors. The juxtaposition of clashing colors evokes the chaos of Hanoi streets. There is an increased clarity that has been attained through omission rather than addition of details.

Looking at an abstract painting from this century helps answer my guiding question about the elements of art. The basic elements of art–color, line, and form–haven’t changed and through these elements one can create different emotions in the mind of the viewers. Moreover, the emotions that are triggered in each viewer is different based on their unique interpretation of these elements.

Reference

Bhansali, V. (2019, June 25). Nguyen Bao Ha, A Rainy Day [Abstract Painting, Mixed Media]. Personal Item, Palo Alto, California.

Featured Image: Bhansali, V. Salidas de Maras 2014. Photograph. Maras, Peru.