A postcard with a self-portrait as musician, Gouache and ink on paper, 13 x 9 cm, 1986

1970s – middle 1980s – Self-portraits

Throughout the history of art, many artists have focused on self-portraits, and for Vu Dan Tan, this was one of the favorite themes that he explored from the early 1970s until the final year of his life.

1970s – 1980s. Masks

In the 1970s and 1980s, Vũ Dân Tân, who has nurtured a passion for drawing since his youth, became enthralled by the art of mask-making, alongside his endeavors in drawing and painting.

Suitcases Of A Pilgrim

Vũ Dân Tân early career passion for creating art objects led to his most renowned series of three-dimensional works titled ‘Suitcases of a Pilgrim’, which commenced in 1995 and evolved periodically until 2006.

Money

One of the most significant series by Vũ Dân Tân, titled ‘Money’, was developed from the early 1990s through the 2000s, referring to such concepts as statehood, national identity, economy, trade, borders, and the aspiration for unrestricted freedom.

Fashion

The Series ‘Fashion’, which have emerged at the turn of the millennium and evolved until the artist’s death, represents objects-sculptures of human scale that embody beauty and mystery of women dress.

Music Scores

It is well recognized that Vu Dan Tan integrated music and sound into his artistic endeavors, and that he was an accomplished pianist; however, his role as a composer remains largely unacknowledged.

Writings

Vu Dan Tan, born into a family of a playwright and publisher, developed a fascination for literature from a young age. His creative practice reflects the convergence of his interests in visual arts, language, and literature in various forms.