The exhibition “Lighting Up History” is currently on display at the Bat Trang Pottery Museum (Gia Lam, Hanoi), featuring light sculpture art by artisan Bui Van Tu to portray Vietnam’s rich historical journey. Light sculpture art is a relatively new art form in Vietnam. It combines sculpture with strategically placed lighting to shape angles and distortions, using shadows cast by the sculpted objects to create striking visual images.

From rough wooden blocks, through creativity and craftsmanship, Bui Van Tu has brought to life 14 iconic heroes of Vietnamese history. Each artwork represents a significant era in the nation’s fight for independence and unity. The exhibition is a heartfelt tribute – a reminder of Vietnam’s proud past and an expression of gratitude to those who came before.

Here is the list of 14 iconic heroes of Vietnamese history in the exhibition “Lighting Up History” by artisan Bui Van Tu.

Image: Quoc To Hung Vuong – Founding Ancestor of Vietnam

The first king of the ancient Van Lang Kingdom, Quoc To Hung Vuong (Hung King) is honored as the founder of the Vietnamese nation. His reign marks the beginning of Vietnam’s long journey of building and defending the country.

Image: Hai Ba Trung – National Heroines of Vietnam

These two courageous sisters led an uprising against the Eastern Han invaders, reclaiming independence for the Vietnamese people. They are celebrated as symbols of patriotism and resilience.

Image: Ly Nam De – Founder of the Van Xuan Kingdom

He established the Van Xuan Kingdom and led the resistance against the Liang Dynasty’s rule, marking an early assertion of Vietnamese sovereignty.

Image: Ngo Quyen – The Victor of Bach Dang River

He led the resistance against the Southern Han and triumphed in the historic Bach Dang River battle, putting an end to centuries of Chinese domination and restoring national independence.

Image: Dinh Tien Hoang – Unifier of the Nation

In the history, he ended the chaos of the Twelve Warlords and unified the country, founding the Dinh Dynasty and laying the groundwork for an independent Vietnamese state.

Image: Le Dai Hanh – Defender of Vietnamese Sovereignty

He led the resistance against the Song Dynasty, successfully protecting the independence of the Early Le Dynasty and securing Vietnam’s sovereignty.

Image: Ly Thai To – Founder of the Ly Dynasty

He established the Ly Dynasty and relocated the capital from Hoa Lu to Thang Long (present-day Hanoi), ushering in a prosperous era for Dai Viet.

Image: Ly Thuong Kiet – Brilliant Military Commander

A legendary general who led Vietnamese forces to victory against the invading Song Dynasty, securing the nation’s independence.

Image: Tran Nhan Tong – King Who Led the Resistance Against Mongol Invaders

He led the Vietnamese people in defending the nation against invasions by both the Mongol and Yuan forces, securing lasting peace and national pride.

Image: Tran Hung Dao – Legendary General of the Tran Dynasty

A brilliant military strategist who led the Tran army and people to three historic victories against the Mongol–Yuan invasions, becoming one of Vietnam’s greatest national heroes.

Image: Le Loi – Leader of the Lam Son Uprising

He led the Lam Son Uprising against the Ming invaders, successfully restoring Vietnam’s independence and founding the Later Le Dynasty.

Image: Nguyen Trai – Brilliant Strategist and Cultural Icon

A key figure in the Lam Son Uprising, he was an exceptional military strategist, diplomat, and cultural scholar who played a vital role in securing Vietnam’s independence.

Image: Quang Trung – The Peasant Emperor and National Unifier

A legendary leader of the Tay Son movement, he defeated the Qing invaders and reunified the country, becoming one of Vietnam’s most celebrated military heroes.

Image: Ho Chi Minh – Father of Vietnam

He founded the Democratic Republic of Vietnam and led the nation through struggles against Japanese, French, and American invasions. Admired and revered by generations, he remains a symbol of wisdom, resilience, and inspiration for the Vietnamese people.

The light sculpture performance honoring 14 iconic heroes of Vietnamese history is more than an artistic expression – it’s a powerful tribute to the enduring spirit of a nation. Through light and shadow, artisan Bùi Văn Tự breathes life into the past, reminding us of the courage, wisdom, and sacrifice that shaped Vietnam. “Lighting Up History” invites each viewer not only to reflect on the legacy of these national figures, but also to carry forward their spirit in the journey ahead.

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