5.3 Modernist Movements in Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines
12 min read•july 29, 2024
Southeast Asian modernism emerged in the early 20th century, blending Western techniques with local traditions. Artists in Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines created unique styles that reflected their cultural heritage and national identities.
These movements were shaped by colonialism, nationalism, and anti-colonial struggles. Artists used their work to assert cultural pride, critique oppression, and explore themes of identity and social justice in a rapidly changing region.
Modernist Movements in Southeast Asia
Characteristics of Modernist Movements in Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines
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- Modernist movements in Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines emerged in the early to mid-20th century, influenced by Western modernism but also shaped by local cultural, historical, and political contexts
- was characterized by a fusion of traditional Vietnamese aesthetics with Western techniques and styles, often reflecting themes of nationalism, anti-colonialism, and social realism
- The École Supérieure des Beaux-Arts de l'Indochine in Hanoi, established by the French in 1925, played a significant role in the development of Vietnamese modernism
- Vietnamese modernist artists sought to create a distinct national identity through their art, incorporating elements of folk art, lacquer painting, and silk painting
- Examples of Vietnamese modernist artists include , known for his lacquer paintings, and , renowned for his impressionistic street scenes of Hanoi
- was marked by a synthesis of indigenous art forms, Islamic influences, and Western modernist styles, with a focus on expressing national identity and cultural heritage
- The Persagi (Persatuan Ahli-Ahli Gambar Indonesia) group, founded in 1938, was instrumental in promoting modernist art in Indonesia
- Indonesian modernist artists drew inspiration from traditional art forms such as batik, wayang (shadow puppetry), and wood carving, integrating them with Western techniques
- Notable Indonesian modernist artists include , considered the first modern Indonesian artist, and , known for his expressive and emotive paintings
- incorporated elements of Hispanic and American colonial influences, as well as indigenous and folk art traditions, while addressing themes of national identity, social issues, and the search for a distinct Philippine aesthetic
- The University of the Philippines School of Fine Arts, established in 1908, was a key institution in the development of Philippine modernism
- Philippine modernist artists sought to break away from conservative artistic traditions and create a new visual language that reflected the country's cultural diversity and historical experiences
- Significant Philippine modernist artists include Victorio C. Edades, considered the father of modern Philippine art, and Fernando Amorsolo, known for his idyllic depictions of Philippine rural life
Comparison and Contrast of Modernist Movements in Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines
- While modernist movements in Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines were all influenced by Western modernism, each country's artistic development was shaped by its unique cultural, historical, and political contexts
- Vietnamese modernism was heavily influenced by French colonial art education and the country's struggle for independence, resulting in a strong emphasis on nationalism and social realism
- Indonesian modernism drew from the country's rich cultural heritage, including Islamic art traditions and indigenous art forms, while also addressing themes of national identity in the context of Dutch colonial rule
- Philippine modernism was shaped by the country's complex colonial history, with influences from Spanish and American art traditions, as well as indigenous and folk art, leading to a diverse and eclectic modernist art scene
- Despite their differences, modernist movements in these countries shared common goals of asserting national identity, challenging colonial artistic traditions, and creating a distinct aesthetic that reflected their cultural heritage and contemporary experiences
- Artists in all three countries sought to blend Western modernist techniques with local art forms and traditions, creating hybridized styles that were both globally informed and locally rooted
- Modernist art in Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines often addressed themes of nationalism, social justice, and cultural identity, reflecting the political and social upheavals of the early to mid-20th century
Colonialism, Nationalism, and Art
Impact of Colonialism on Modernist Art Development
- The legacy of (French), Indonesia (Dutch), and the Philippines (Spanish and American) had a significant impact on the emergence and evolution of modernist art in these countries
- Colonial art education institutions introduced Western artistic techniques, styles, and philosophies to local artists, often leading to a hybridization of Western and indigenous art forms
- The École Supérieure des Beaux-Arts de l'Indochine in Hanoi, established by the French, exposed Vietnamese artists to Western modernist styles and techniques, which they adapted to create a distinct Vietnamese modernist aesthetic
- The Dutch colonial government's establishment of art schools in Indonesia, such as the Bandung Institute of Technology, introduced Western art education and facilitated the development of Indonesian modernism
- In the Philippines, the Spanish and American colonial periods brought Western art traditions, which Filipino artists selectively adopted and reinterpreted in the development of Philippine modernism
- Colonial art policies and institutions often prioritized Western art forms and aesthetics, leading to a marginalization of indigenous art traditions and a complex negotiation of cultural identity for modernist artists
- Vietnamese, Indonesian, and Philippine modernist artists had to navigate the tensions between Western artistic influences and their own cultural heritage, seeking to assert their national identity and artistic autonomy within the context of colonial power structures
- The colonial legacy also resulted in a hierarchical art world, with Western art often valued more highly than local art forms, a dynamic that modernist artists sought to challenge and subvert
Influence of Nationalism and Anti-Colonial Movements on Modernist Art
- The rise of nationalism and anti-colonial movements in the early to mid-20th century influenced the subject matter and themes explored by modernist artists in these countries
- Artists often used their work to assert national identity, critique colonial oppression, and celebrate cultural heritage and traditions
- Vietnamese modernist artists, such as Nguyễn Gia Trí and , incorporated nationalist and anti-colonial themes in their paintings, often depicting scenes of rural life and the struggles of ordinary Vietnamese people
- Indonesian modernist artists, such as and Sudjojono, used their art to promote Indonesian nationalism and critique the social and political inequalities of Dutch colonial rule
- Philippine modernist artists, like Victorio C. Edades and Carlos V. Francisco, addressed themes of national identity and social justice, often portraying the lives of marginalized communities and the country's struggle for independence
- Modernist art became a powerful tool for political and social commentary, with artists using their work to raise awareness about the realities of colonial oppression and the importance of cultural preservation and national self-determination
- Artists employed symbolism, allegory, and narrative elements in their paintings to convey political messages and inspire nationalist sentiments among the public
- Modernist art exhibitions and publications served as platforms for artists to disseminate their ideas and foster a sense of national unity and pride in the face of colonial domination
Role of Cultural Heritage in Shaping Modernist Art
- The rich cultural heritage of Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines, including traditional art forms, religious influences, and folk traditions, served as a source of inspiration and a means of asserting cultural identity in modernist art
- Artists sought to incorporate and reinterpret traditional motifs, techniques, and symbolism in their modernist works, creating a distinct synthesis of local and global influences
- Vietnamese modernist artists drew inspiration from traditional Vietnamese art forms, such as lacquer painting, silk painting, and woodblock printing, adapting these techniques to create a modernist visual language that celebrated Vietnamese cultural heritage
- Indonesian modernist artists incorporated elements of traditional Indonesian art, such as batik patterns, wayang kulit (shadow puppetry), and Hindu-Buddhist iconography, into their paintings, asserting the value and relevance of Indonesian cultural traditions in the modern era
- Philippine modernist artists looked to indigenous art forms, such as the Cordillera region's woven textiles and the Maranao people's okir (geometric patterns), as well as Hispanic and American folk art traditions, to develop a distinctly Philippine modernist aesthetic
- By engaging with their cultural heritage, modernist artists in Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines sought to challenge the cultural hegemony of Western art and assert the validity and vitality of their own artistic traditions
- The incorporation of cultural elements into modernist art served as a means of resistance against colonial cultural assimilation and a celebration of national identity and pride
- Modernist artists played a crucial role in preserving and promoting their countries' cultural heritage, ensuring its continuity and relevance in the face of rapid social and political change
Institutions and Modernist Art
Role of Art Institutions in Developing and Promoting Modernist Art
- Art institutions, such as the École Supérieure des Beaux-Arts de l'Indochine in Hanoi, the Persagi group in Indonesia, and the University of the Philippines School of Fine Arts, played a crucial role in the development and dissemination of modernist art in Southeast Asia
- These institutions provided formal art education, often based on Western models, and served as platforms for artistic experimentation, collaboration, and exhibition
- The École Supérieure des Beaux-Arts de l'Indochine, established by the French colonial government in 1925, trained a generation of Vietnamese modernist artists, including Nguyễn Gia Trí and Tô Ngọc Vân, who went on to become influential figures in the Vietnamese art world
- The Persagi group, founded in 1938 in Indonesia, brought together artists committed to developing a distinctly Indonesian modernist art movement, organizing exhibitions and publishing manifestos that challenged the dominance of colonial art institutions and promoted nationalist ideals
- The University of the Philippines School of Fine Arts, established in 1908, played a pivotal role in the development of Philippine modernism, training artists such as Victorio C. Edades and Galo B. Ocampo, who became leading figures in the country's art scene
- Art institutions also facilitated the exchange of ideas and techniques between local and international artists, fostering a dialogue between Southeast Asian modernism and global art movements
- Artists who studied abroad, particularly in Europe and the United States, often returned to their home countries to teach at art institutions, sharing their knowledge of Western modernist techniques and philosophies with a new generation of artists
- Visiting artists and lecturers from abroad also brought new ideas and perspectives to Southeast Asian art institutions, contributing to the development of a cosmopolitan and internationally engaged modernist art scene
Importance of Galleries and Exhibition Spaces in Showcasing Modernist Art
- Galleries and exhibition spaces, both state-sponsored and private, were essential in showcasing modernist art and fostering public engagement with new artistic styles and ideas
- Notable examples include the Tonkin Free School of Fine Arts in Hanoi, the Jakarta Arts Council, and the Philippine Art Gallery in Manila
- These spaces provided opportunities for modernist artists to display their work, engage with audiences, and build their reputations within the art world
- Exhibitions also served as important platforms for artistic exchange and collaboration, bringing together artists from different regions and backgrounds to share ideas and techniques
- Galleries and exhibition spaces played a crucial role in educating the public about modernist art and challenging traditional artistic hierarchies and conventions
- By showcasing modernist art alongside more traditional art forms, these spaces helped to legitimize and popularize modernist styles and ideas, gradually shifting public perceptions and tastes
- Exhibitions also provided a space for critical discourse and debate about the role of art in society, with modernist artists using their work to engage with pressing social, political, and cultural issues
- The establishment of state-sponsored galleries and exhibition spaces, such as the National Gallery of Indonesia and the Cultural Center of the Philippines, demonstrated the growing recognition of the importance of modernist art in shaping national identity and cultural development
- These institutions provided a stable platform for the promotion and preservation of modernist art, ensuring its long-term impact and legacy in Southeast Asian art history
- State support for modernist art also helped to counter the influence of colonial art institutions and assert the value and legitimacy of indigenous artistic traditions and innovations
Significance of Art Education in Nurturing Modernist Artists and Public Appreciation
- Art education, both formal and informal, was instrumental in nurturing a new generation of modernist artists and promoting the appreciation of modernist art among the public
- Artists who studied abroad, particularly in Europe and the United States, often returned to their home countries to teach and share their knowledge of Western modernist techniques and philosophies
- The establishment of art schools and departments in universities, such as the Fine Arts Department at the University of the Philippines and the Bandung Institute of Technology in Indonesia, provided a structured curriculum for aspiring artists to learn about modernist art theories and practices
- Informal art education, through workshops, artist collectives, and community-based initiatives, also played a significant role in spreading modernist ideas and techniques beyond the confines of formal institutions
- Art education helped to create a supportive ecosystem for modernist art, fostering a community of artists, critics, and patrons who were invested in the growth and development of the movement
- Art schools and universities became hubs for artistic experimentation and collaboration, with students and faculty members working together to push the boundaries of traditional art forms and explore new modes of expression
- The inclusion of art appreciation and history courses in school curricula helped to cultivate a broader public understanding and appreciation of modernist art, creating a more receptive audience for modernist works and ideas
- The legacy of modernist art education can be seen in the continued influence of modernist styles and philosophies in contemporary Southeast Asian art
- Many of today's leading artists in Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines trace their artistic lineages back to the pioneering modernist artists and educators of the early to mid-20th century
- The institutions and pedagogical approaches established during the modernist period continue to shape the training and development of new generations of artists, ensuring the ongoing vitality and relevance of modernist art in the region
Key Modernist Artists and their Impact
Significant Vietnamese Modernist Artists and their Contributions
- Nguyễn Gia Trí (1908-1993): Known for his lacquer paintings that blended traditional Vietnamese techniques with modernist abstraction and symbolism
- Nguyễn Gia Trí's innovative use of lacquer as a medium for modernist expression helped to elevate the status of lacquer painting in Vietnamese art and inspired subsequent generations of artists to experiment with this traditional technique
- His paintings often depicted scenes of Vietnamese rural life and landscapes, using abstracted forms and bold color contrasts to convey a sense of national identity and cultural heritage
- Notable works include "Les Fées" (The Fairies) and "Les Pagodes" (The Pagodas), which showcase his mastery of the lacquer medium and his ability to blend Vietnamese and Western artistic traditions
- Bùi Xuân Phái (1920-1988): Renowned for his impressionistic street scenes of Hanoi, capturing the essence of Vietnamese urban life
- Bùi Xuân Phái's paintings of Hanoi's streets and alleys, with their vibrant colors and loose, expressive brushwork, became iconic images of the city and helped to establish him as one of Vietnam's most beloved modernist artists
- His work often focused on the everyday lives of ordinary people, depicting street vendors, cyclo drivers, and other working-class figures with empathy and humanity
- Paintings such as "Hanoi's Old Quarter" and "Hanoi's Streets in the Autumn" exemplify his distinctive style and his ability to capture the spirit and atmosphere of the city
- Trần Văn Cẩn (1910-1994): A pioneer of Vietnamese silk painting, incorporating modernist techniques and traditional Vietnamese motifs
- Trần Văn Cẩn's adaptation of silk painting, a traditional Vietnamese art form, for modernist expression helped to revitalize and popularize this medium in the context of contemporary art
- His paintings often featured stylized depictions of Vietnamese landscapes, women, and folk motifs, rendered in delicate, flowing lines and soft, luminous colors
- Works such as "Seated Woman" and "Landscape with Bamboo" showcase his mastery of the silk painting technique and his ability to infuse traditional Vietnamese themes with a modernist sensibility
Notable Indonesian Modernist Artists and their Impact
- Raden Saleh (1807-1880): Considered the first modern Indonesian artist, known for his romantic and naturalistic paintings that blended European and Javanese styles
- Raden Saleh's work marks a significant early example of the hybridization of Western and Indonesian artistic traditions, paving the way for the development of a distinctly Indonesian modernist art movement
- His paintings often depicted Indonesian landscapes, wildlife, and historical scenes, rendered in a romantic, naturalistic style that appealed to both Indonesian and European audiences
- Notable works include "The Arrest of Pangeran Diponegoro" and "The Deer Hunt," which showcase his ability to blend Western techniques with Indonesian subject matter and sensibilities
- Affandi (1907-1990): Recognized for his expressive and emotive paintings, often depicting the lives of ordinary Indonesians
- Affandi's bold, gestural painting style, characterized by thick, impasto brushstrokes and vivid colors, became a hallmark of Indonesian modernist art and influenced subsequent generations of artists
- His paintings often portrayed the struggles and joys of everyday life in Indonesia, with a particular focus on the lives of farmers, fishermen, and other working-class people
- Works such as "Self-Portrait" and "Farmer's Family" exemplify his powerful, emotionally charged approach to painting and his commitment to social realism
- Hendra Gunawan (1918-1983): Known for his vibrant, figurative paintings that celebrated Indonesian culture and addressed social and political issues
- Hendra Gunawan's dynamic, colorful paintings helped to establish a distinctly Indonesian style of modernist art, one that was deeply rooted in the country's cultural traditions and social realities
- His work often depicted scenes of Indonesian life and mythology, with a particular focus on the lives of women and the struggles of ordinary people
- Paintings such as "Balinese Dancer" and "Rice Harvest" showcase his ability to capture the energy and vitality of Indonesian culture, while also addressing important social an
Key Terms to Review (25)
Affandi: Affandi was a prominent Indonesian painter known for his unique style that blends expressionism and traditional Indonesian themes. His work often reflects the social realities and cultural landscapes of Indonesia, making him a pivotal figure in the modernist movements across Southeast Asia, especially in the context of the evolving art scene during the mid-20th century.
Budi Utomo: Budi Utomo, founded in 1908, was the first Indonesian nationalist organization and played a crucial role in the early modernist movements within Indonesia. Its primary focus was on promoting education and cultural awareness among the Javanese population while fostering a sense of national identity. The organization aimed to unite Indonesians against colonial rule and laid the groundwork for future nationalist movements that sought independence from Dutch colonialism.
Bùi xuân phái: Bùi Xuân Phái was a prominent Vietnamese painter known for his contributions to modernist art in Vietnam, particularly during the 20th century. He is celebrated for his distinctive style that blends traditional Vietnamese themes with modern techniques, often focusing on the urban landscape of Hanoi and capturing the essence of daily life in Vietnam. His work played a significant role in shaping the Vietnamese modernist movement and reflecting the cultural identity during a time of political change.
Colonialism in Vietnam: Colonialism in Vietnam refers to the period of foreign domination, primarily by the French, from the mid-19th century until the mid-20th century. This era was marked by significant social, economic, and political changes that deeply affected Vietnamese society and culture, fostering nationalist movements and modernist expressions in literature and art as responses to colonial rule.
Cultural Hybridity: Cultural hybridity refers to the blending and merging of different cultural influences, resulting in new, mixed forms of expression and identity. This concept is especially important in understanding how various modernist movements adapt and reinterpret local traditions while simultaneously engaging with global ideas, leading to dynamic and multifaceted artistic practices.
Hendra Gunawan: Hendra Gunawan was an influential Indonesian painter and a key figure in the modernist movement in Indonesia during the mid-20th century. His works often reflect a blend of traditional Indonesian art forms with modernist techniques, capturing the essence of Indonesian identity and culture while embracing contemporary styles. Gunawan's contribution to the art scene not only showcased Indonesian themes but also helped establish a unique narrative that connected local culture with global modernism.
Indonesian Modernism: Indonesian Modernism refers to a cultural and artistic movement that emerged in the early 20th century, characterized by the integration of local traditions with Western influences, reflecting the social and political changes within Indonesia. This movement sought to express national identity and modernity through various forms of art, literature, and architecture, responding to colonial rule and the quest for independence.
Jakarta Biennale: The Jakarta Biennale is a contemporary art festival held in Jakarta, Indonesia, that showcases a wide range of artistic expressions and promotes cultural exchange among artists from Indonesia and around the world. It serves as an important platform for modernist movements, particularly in the context of Indonesia's evolving art scene and its interactions with other Southeast Asian countries, notably Vietnam and the Philippines.
José Garcia Villa: José Garcia Villa was a Filipino poet, fiction writer, and painter, recognized as a significant figure in modernist literature in the Philippines. His work is marked by innovative use of language and form, which contributed to the evolution of Philippine poetry and brought attention to modernist movements across Southeast Asia. Villa's impact is particularly evident through his unique writing style and his role in promoting modernist ideals within the Filipino literary community.
Manila Art Fair: The Manila Art Fair is an annual event that showcases contemporary art from the Philippines and other Southeast Asian countries. This fair serves as a platform for artists, galleries, and collectors to come together, promoting not only local talent but also facilitating cross-cultural exchanges within the broader context of modernist movements in the region.
Martial Law in the Philippines: Martial law in the Philippines refers to the imposition of direct military control over normal civilian functions of government, often invoked during times of emergency or unrest. It was most notably declared by President Ferdinand Marcos from 1972 to 1981, aimed at suppressing dissent and maintaining control during a period marked by political instability and societal unrest. The declaration led to significant changes in governance, civil rights, and the political landscape of the country.
Modernist reinterpretation: Modernist reinterpretation refers to the reimagining and transformation of traditional cultural forms, styles, and narratives through a modern lens, often integrating contemporary themes, techniques, and ideologies. This process is crucial in understanding how various cultures adapt to new realities, express their identities, and challenge historical narratives, particularly in the context of movements in Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
Nationalism in Art: Nationalism in art refers to the movement where artists express national identity, culture, and heritage through their works. It often seeks to reflect the uniqueness of a nation’s history, traditions, and struggles, serving both as a celebration of national pride and a critique of colonialism or foreign influence. This concept plays a crucial role in shaping modernist movements, particularly in regions asserting their identity against colonial powers.
Nguyễn gia trí: Nguyễn Gia Trí was a prominent Vietnamese painter known for his innovative approach to modern art, particularly during the early to mid-20th century. He played a vital role in blending traditional Vietnamese aesthetics with modernist techniques, significantly influencing the art scene in Vietnam and contributing to the broader modernist movements in the region.
Nguyen Huy Thiep: Nguyen Huy Thiep is a prominent Vietnamese author known for his influential works that reflect the complexities of Vietnamese society post-war, often blending modernist literary techniques with traditional elements. His narratives explore themes of identity, societal change, and the clash between tradition and modernity, making him a significant figure in the landscape of modern Vietnamese literature and the broader context of modernist movements in Vietnam.
Noli me tangere: Noli me tangere, which translates to 'do not touch me,' is a Latin phrase that has deep religious and cultural significance, often associated with themes of longing, separation, and the sacred. In the context of modernist movements in Southeast Asia, particularly in the Philippines, it serves as a powerful metaphor for colonial experiences and personal identity struggles amidst foreign oppression. This term reflects the tension between personal desires and societal constraints, encapsulating the emotional landscape of individuals navigating complex cultural dynamics.
Philippine Modernism: Philippine Modernism refers to the artistic and literary movements that emerged in the Philippines during the early to mid-20th century, characterized by a break from traditional forms and a pursuit of new expressions reflecting national identity and modern experiences. This movement was influenced by both local and global contexts, including the struggle for independence, exposure to Western art, and the desire to articulate a unique Filipino voice in literature, visual arts, and other cultural expressions.
Post-colonial theory: Post-colonial theory is an analytical framework that examines the lasting impact of colonialism on cultures, societies, and identities, particularly in formerly colonized nations. It focuses on the complexities of power dynamics, cultural exchanges, and identity formation in the wake of colonial rule, emphasizing the need to deconstruct narratives imposed by colonial powers. This theory plays a vital role in understanding modernist movements and cultural expressions that emerged in response to colonial experiences, as well as the reassertion of cultural identity among colonized peoples.
Raden Saleh: Raden Saleh was a prominent Indonesian painter of the 19th century, known for his role in the early development of modern art in Indonesia. He combined traditional Javanese themes and techniques with European styles, creating a unique artistic voice that reflected both local culture and global influences. His work represents a significant milestone in the context of modernist movements across Southeast Asia, showcasing the fusion of indigenous identity and Western artistic principles.
Stream of Consciousness in Filipino Literature: Stream of consciousness is a narrative technique that aims to provide an intimate portrayal of a character's thoughts and feelings in a continuous flow. In Filipino literature, this technique reflects the complexities of identity, memory, and cultural experience, often showcasing how characters navigate their inner worlds amidst socio-political changes. This approach aligns with modernist movements that emerged in the Philippines, where writers sought innovative ways to represent psychological depth and fragmented realities.
Surrealism in Indonesian Art: Surrealism in Indonesian art is a movement that emerged in the 20th century, characterized by its exploration of the unconscious mind, dream imagery, and the juxtaposition of unexpected elements. This movement drew from both Western surrealist influences and local cultural traditions, resulting in unique artworks that reflect Indonesia's rich history and social issues. The blending of these influences created a distinctive approach that resonated with artists seeking to express deeper realities beyond the physical world.
The Quiet American: The Quiet American is a novel by Graham Greene published in 1955, set against the backdrop of the First Indochina War in Vietnam. The story explores themes of colonialism, innocence, and moral ambiguity through the interactions between its main characters: a British journalist and an idealistic American who represent conflicting ideologies in a rapidly changing world. This narrative reflects the complexities of modernism as seen in Southeast Asia during this tumultuous period.
The Song of Lawino: The Song of Lawino is a significant poem written by Ugandan poet Okot p'Bitek, published in 1966. It reflects the struggles of African identity and cultural conflict in the face of colonial influences and modernity, making it a key text in understanding the modernist movements in Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines as it resonates with themes of cultural reclamation and resistance.
Trần Văn Cẩn: Trần Văn Cẩn was a prominent Vietnamese painter and educator, known for his significant contributions to modern art in Vietnam during the 20th century. His work is marked by the blending of traditional Vietnamese artistic elements with Western modernism, reflecting the social and political changes in Vietnam during this transformative period.
Vietnamese Modernism: Vietnamese Modernism refers to a cultural and artistic movement that emerged in Vietnam during the early 20th century, characterized by a fusion of traditional Vietnamese aesthetics with Western modernist influences. This movement was significant in shaping the country's literary, visual, and performing arts, reflecting the social, political, and historical changes occurring in Vietnam during colonial rule and beyond.