Hanoi for art lover

Hanoi street art

Phung Hung Street

The best things in life sometimes are free, especially in the case of this fabulous street art in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Optimistic murals depicting life in Vietnam line the old masonry, making it seem as though the past is walking with the present. Not only is this street endlessly Instagrammable, but you may find games and shows held here as well. 

Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural 

You can’t miss this enormous mural when driving through Hanoi. Created for the millennial anniversary of Hanoi’s founding in 2010, the ceramic mosaic was declared the longest in the world by the Guiness Book of World Records. Stretching over six kilometres, the mosaic features a mix of themes in one long piece of outdoor art. 

Into Thin Air

Into Thin Air is a public art project curated by Manzi Art Space. Ten virtual artworks -- sound walks, virtual installations and video arts -- exist permanently in 10 key public sites around Hanoi. You’ll need to download the app and wear your headphones to be able to view and interact with each piece. 

Fine art museums

Hanoi Fine Arts Museum

Once a Catholic boarding school for girls, the building now houses the country’s finest collection of early-modern paintings. These works from the 19th century to the present reveal fascinating meditations on themes of nationalism, foreign occupation, martyrdom, war and colonisation and the emergence of a national artistic identity. 

The Women’s Museum

This modern museum celebrates the history of women in Vietnam, with showcases of traditional garments, sculptures, paintings, artwork, wood carvings and lacquer. Just above the museum you’ll find MAM Art Collection, a small venue curated by CUC Gallery. This hidden gem is an absolute must-see for art enthusiasts when in Hanoi.

Vietnam National Museum of History

Apart from its beautiful architecture, this building boasts a fantastic collection of antique art. The national museum is a place where art, craftsmanship, and history intersect. Stroll the quiet corridors to encounter wood carvings from the 4th century, Champa statues, exquisite engravings from the 19th century, and more.

Contemporary art spaces and galleries

Manzi Art Space 

This gallery sits cozily inside a luminous French Villa. Tall windows and high ceilings create bright and fresh interiors, perfect for viewing the delicate pieces of contemporary Vietnamese art on display, or just cosying up with coffee and a book. Manzi regularly hosts workshops and exhibits with top Vietnamese artists. 

Six Space

For everything modern art in Hanoi, head to Six Space on Tran Hung Dao st. Run by a group of young artists from a wide variety of disciplines from painting to filmmaking, Six Space’s youthful energy, ambition and fluidity will inspire you. There’s always an interesting exchange of ideas here, as well as stunning art. 

Á Space 

If you’re interested in experimental art, Á Space specialises in showcasing unique, contemporary pieces. A sanctuary for young emerging artists, this gallery likes to push the envelope. There’s a little something for all art enthusiasts here, including films, paintings, music, installations and more. 

Artsy souvenirs and mementos

Collective Memory

Just a stone’s throw from the St Joseph’s Cathedral, Collective Memory is a gem of a shop set on Nha Chung st. On the shelves you’ll find an assortment of kitschy paraphernalia, beautiful ceramics, limited edition art prints from established and emerging artists, edible goodies and delightful collectibles. Stop by to find that special print or piece to bring home from your trip to Hanoi.

Zó Paper

Zó Project has its shop just on the edge of the tracks on Hanoi’s charming train street. Sign up for one of their art workshops, or just browse the shelves for unique stationery created using an ancient paper-making technique. Zó works with artisans from paper villages near Hanoi to create gorgeous posters, calendars, and notebooks.

Source: vietnamtravel