Curated: Abloom

The Sino-Vietnamese term “Lập” in the phrase “Lập Xuân” means the beginning or establishment, while “Xuân” refers to spring, the first season among the four seasons of the year. When combined, “Lập Xuân” is not simply a moment in the traditional solar calendar; it marks the time when the universe begins a new cycle, heralding a hopeful new year. It is a sacred turning point when nature stirs awake after the long winter’s sleep, all things transform, and people’s spirits are revitalized. This is not only an important marker in Eastern calendrical systems but also an occasion for us to renew ourselves physically and spiritually, welcoming the moment of revival and new growth.

The seasonal transition from winter to spring has long been cherished in East Asian culture as a pivotal moment connecting Heaven, Earth, and Humanity. According to folk feng shui beliefs, the Lập Xuân period is the time to “cleanse” the mind and ensure smooth, harmonious energy flow throughout the new year. Unlike the lucky red or dazzling yellow, the color of spring at Lập Xuân is green — the color of growth, freshness, and renewal. It is the color of new grass sprouting from the earth, of buds bursting forth on bare branches after cold winter days, signaling the emergence of life and a spring filled with new hopes.

“Lập Xuân” at the Quang San Art Museum is a poetic and harmonious painting exhibition embodying the spirit of new beginnings and positive energy. The exhibition gathers delicate, lyrical works by renowned Vietnamese artists — from the veteran generation like Joseph Inguimberty, Lê Năng Hiển, Nguyễn Hà, Đỗ Xuân Doãn to later generations such as Lê Xuân Chiểu, Nguyễn Văn Hải, and Nguyễn Nghĩa Cương. Each artwork is a gentle yet profound snapshot, portraying the atmosphere of spring through fluid brushstrokes and emotionally rich palettes — sometimes subdued, sometimes radiant, sometimes wistful, but always full of hope.

“Lập Xuân” will be displayed on the second floor of the Quang San Art Museum from January 6, 2024, to March 3, 2024. This is a New Year’s invitation for art lovers to come admire, feel, and listen to the gentle melody of spring through the lens of Vietnamese painting. We hope every step taken at the exhibition will be a moment of inner calm, helping visitors find peace in their souls and begin a full year in the spirit of Lập Xuân: a gentle beginning, green living, and poetic grace.