The exhibition “THE ARt of WATER” will take place on December 13 and 14 at the Hanoi Creative Activities Coordination Center (Hanoi Museum), offering visitors an innovative and engaging approach to experiencing Vietnam’s traditional folk art.
Water puppetry was emerged in the Red River Delta around the 10th century. Photo: Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
The event is part of the “Ngoc Thuy Dinh” (Jade of Water Temple) communication project, developed by print journalism students from the Academy of Journalism and Communication. Aiming to make this unique heritage more accessible to younger audiences, the project applies augmented reality (AR) technology to present cultural values in a modern and immersive format.
According to Nguyen Minh Trang, Head of the Organizing Committee, integrating AR technology provides a distinctive experience compared to conventional projection or simulation methods. “Viewers can ‘step into’ the water puppet stage in a digital environment, observe images and artifacts up close, and explore the cultural and historical narratives behind this traditional art form,” Trang said.
At the exhibition, the essence of Vietnamese water puppetry is recreated through vivid visual elements and soundscapes, such as the rhythm of drums, the movement of water, and the lively atmosphere of village festivals. A notable feature of the AR experience is its personalization: visitors can explore at their own pace, choose different viewpoints, and capture memorable moments to share on social media. “Participants can independently discover the distinctive values of folk culture embedded within the AR space,” Trang added.
The exhibition also features water puppetry artifacts provided by the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. These displays, arranged along thematic tour routes, highlight craftsmanship techniques, artisans’ lives, and efforts to preserve the heritage across generations. The Organizing Committee noted that the space allows visitors not only to appreciate the artistry but also to gain deeper insights into the cultural and historical significance of water puppetry.
In collaboration with Vun Art, a workshop on crafting water puppets from fabric scraps will be held during the exhibition, offering visitors a hands-on opportunity to create puppets rooted in traditional aesthetics. Additionally, a 3D wooden painting booth by Sac Viet (The color of Vietnam) will serve as another interactive highlight, enriching the overall experience.
The Organizing Committee expressed hope that the exhibition will inspire the public, particularly young people to engage with national cultural heritage in new ways. By fostering curiosity and appreciation, the event aims to contribute to the preservation and promotion of Vietnam’s folk arts in the modern era.
“THE ARt of WATER” promises to provide local and international visitors with a fresh and dynamic perspective on traditional water puppetry.
By Jenna Duong
