In the early days of 2026, the pedestrian space around Hoan Kiem Lake became more lively due to the appearance of the MA DAO | EXHIBITION 2026 exhibition.
Amidst the stream of people strolling, many families, young people and international tourists slow down to admire a series of works inspired by the image of the horse in Vietnamese culture.
The paintings are expressed in a modern graphic style but still easily recognize the spirit of Dong Ho and Hang Trong folk paintings through conventional layouts, dense borders and familiar symbols.
Bright colors and liberal shaping make the work closer and easier to reach the public in an open space.
Many people expressed particular interest in the image of Bach Ma - the white horse associated with the legend of building the Thang Long capital. Besides, the image of horses in familiar folk paintings being "refreshed" has evoked the aspiration for success, glory, as well as the persistent and loyal spirit of Vietnamese people.
Many young people stopped to scan QR codes placed in competition to learn more about the cultural story behind each work.
According to records, the combination of traditional art and technology helps viewers, especially young people, easily access heritage that is usually only seen in books or museums.
The exhibition also contributes to enriching the cultural life in public spaces. Art is not confined to showrooms, but present right on the pedestrian street - a familiar place for the people of the Capital.
The presence of horse paintings in the streets creates an eye-catching highlight, while evoking stories about history, beliefs and national identity.
For many people, being able to both stroll and enjoy paintings with the breath of tradition is a new experience.
Horse paintings are not only for sightseeing, but also open up opportunities for dialogue between the past and the present, between heritage and contemporary life of Hanoi today.
