Spirit of Friendship: Artist Groups in Vietnam Since 1975

Abstract

This curatorial text was written to accompany an exhibition of the same name, which also launched an online timeline and resource platform, and ongoing research project. The focus of this text and its associated projects is "artist groups" in Vietnam since 1975. The authors and curators emphasise friendship between individuals in the formation and functioning of these "artist groups", and note that many were not officially recognised or named as '"collectives". Notions of experimentation and independence in artistic practice are emphasised, as these demonstrate how these artist groups extended the possibilities for contemporary art in Vietnam beyond what was taught or officially endorsed by state institutions, and also by the emergence of a tourist-oriented market. "Spirit of Friendship" is presented here as a resource for further research.