Van To Ngoc
Biography
was a pioneer in transforming lacquer painting from a decorative craft into a versatile modern medium. Born in Ha Dong, he studied at the Indochina College of Fine Arts, where he began experimenting with traditional materials. His early works focused on the romantic beauty of Vietnamese rural life, later developing into large, complex screens, combining traditional aesthetics with modern Western thinking. His dedication to the “Son Ta” technique brought him national recognition.
The contribution of painter Nguyen Gia Tri to the history of Vietnamese art is immense. He was not only a painter but also a master who understood the soul of natural materials, blending eggshells, gold leaf, and lacquer into brilliant, multi-layered masterpieces.
Techniques & Alchemy
Polished lacquer
The process involves applying dozens of layers of paint, each layer being hand-polished underwater to reveal the colors hidden beneath.
The Secret of Eggshell
The skillful use of crushed eggshells and mother-of-pearl to create brilliant white hues and iridescent textures.
Natural Mineral Pigments
Using rare cinnabar, gold leaf, and natural resin extracted from the lacquer tree (Rhus succedanea).
Related artists
Artists from the same aesthetic school or period
