National touring exhibition of ten contemporary Vietnamese women artists to be on exhibition at Kennesaw State University

KENNESAW, Ga. (Jan. 4, 2007)—The College of the Arts at Kennesaw State University will present an exhibition of the work of ten contemporary Vietnamese women artists who challenge the stereotypes and traditional roles of women in Vietnamese society. This touring exhibition includes 47 paintings, works on paper, installations and video and will open Wednesday, January 10, 2007 with a reception from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Sturgis Library Gallery.

   “Changing Identity: Recent Works by Women Artists from Vietnam” is the first survey of women artists from Vietnam to tour the United States. The curator of the exhibition is Nora A. Taylor Ph.D., an associate professor in the School of Global Studies at Arizona State University, Tempe. The tour is organized by International Art & Artists, Washington, D.C.

   The exhibition is supported in part by the E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation and The Henry Luce Foundation. Kennesaw State University is the first venue to exhibit the work before traveling to the Trammell and Margaret Crow Asian Art Museum in Dallas, Tex. in March.

   Dang Thi Khue’s installation “Soul” suggests the female body by three silk scarves that were traditionally worn by Vietnamese women around the waist as part of the “Ao Tu Tham” or four-part dress. They hang on bamboo shades that represent women’s seclusions and hiding from public view. 

   Nguyen Bach Dan’s ink paintings are unique. They share nothing with the traditional Chinese style ink paintings that are executed with careful use of the brush. Her hand is vigorous and energetic as if she scratched the surface with a stick of bamboo. Yet, from afar they appear almost photographic.

   Through the use of various media, subject matter, and aesthetic sensibilities, two generations of artists share views of their country and the changing status of women. Together their work provides a diverse view of Vietnam itself, reflecting a range of opinions and experiences.

   The exhibition, Changing Identity: Recent Works by Women Artists from Vietnam, continues through Wednesday, Feb. 21 and is open to the public. All gallery events are free. For a complete schedule and more information, call 770-499-3223 or visit www.kennesaw.edu/arts .