I still remember the early 2000s when I first met the artist Nguyễn Đăng Phú (born 1947), whom I called “Uncle Phú.” Nguyễn Đăng Phú was a hometown friend and colleague of the art critic Nguyễn Hùng (1947–2014), who was the Editor-in-Chief of the Fine Arts Magazine from 2005-2009. For over 20 years, I have frequently met the artist at various exhibitions at the Fine Arts Exhibition House, 16 Ngô Quyền Street, and at meetings of the Vietnam Fine Arts Association. Occasionally, we would bump into each other while he was walking near Hoan Kiem Lake. Our conversations became increasingly cordial over time.
Portrait of Artist Nguyễn Đăng Phú
NGUYỄN ĐĂNG PHÚ – Hải Phòng Cement Factory after the War. 1975. Color Powder. 44×36.5 cm. Private Collection, Hanoi
After a few years, I was surprised to see him again at an exhibition and noticed how different he looked. Once a tall and robust man with a square face and brisk walk, he now appeared very thin. Upon inquiring, I learned he was battling a serious illness.
I often viewed his works at the annual exhibitions organized by the Fine Arts Association. I have several books showcasing his artworks on my bookshelf. Last year, he came to the magazine office in Ham Long to personally give me two newly printed books. They were collections of his “bamboo theme” and illustrations. A quick glance at a few pages revealed his unmistakable style. For a long time, I associated his art with an “industrial” and “illustrative” quality, as seen in his daily creations.
However, my perspective on his “industrial” style changed after attending his exhibition, “Some Color Powder Paintings from 1967-1980,” at the 16 Ngô Quyền Exhibition House in April 2021.
NGUYỄN ĐĂNG PHÚ – Port at Shift 3. 1975. Color Powder. Private Collection, Hanoi
NGUYỄN ĐĂNG PHÚ – Coal Furnace Workers at Thuong Ly Power Plant (Hải Phòng). 1974. Color Powder. 44×35 cm. Private Collection, Hanoi
NGUYỄN ĐĂNG PHÚ – Hải Phòng Port at Night. 1974. Color Powder. 45×38 cm. Private Collection, Hanoi
Over 40 color powder paintings, created over more than 20 years during the 60s, 70s, and 80s, were displayed. This period, though not long in a lifetime, marked the youthful fervor of a young man learning, working, and building his career amidst the difficulties and hardships of a war-torn country. These struggles shaped a generation of people with pure and honest thoughts, actions, and creativity. The hardships of war and labor were illuminated by the light of benevolence. Nguyễn Đăng Phú’s art from that era reflected this spirit.
His paintings from this time evoke many memories, nostalgia, and emotions from the difficult subsidized period. The artist’s gentle and endearing perspective on contemporary events is evident in his works depicting labor scenes in factories, on construction sites, and in fields, all closely tied to his daily life. Notably, his nighttime depictions of Hải Phòng Port are exceptionally beautiful. His realistic imagery and pure colors bring a simple and delicate beauty, with some pieces approaching the technique of masters, capturing the aesthetic and emotional depth of realism.
NGUYỄN ĐĂNG PHÚ – Thượng Lý Coal Port (Hải Phòng). 1973. Color Powder. 28×42 cm. Private Collection, Hanoi
NGUYỄN ĐĂNG PHÚ – Rebuilding Cầu Rào Bridge after the War. 1975. Color Powder. 50×41 cm. Private Collection, Hanoi
Known for his modern illustrative style reminiscent of Paul Klee, the German-Swiss painter (1879-1940), Nguyễn Đăng Phú’s early realistic and vivid works in color powder are lesser-known but equally impressive. The scarcity of oil paints and the convenience of color powder inadvertently showcased his creative strengths.
Nguyễn Đăng Phú’s color powder paintings serve as a bridge in his artistic evolution, providing clear insight into his modern creations. Starting from a foundation in realism, his progression to abstract forms speaks more convincingly.
NGUYỄN ĐĂNG PHÚ – Cooperative Yard. 1973. Color Powder. Private Collection, Hanoi
NGUYỄN ĐĂNG PHÚ – Triều Khúc Communal House, Hanoi. 1979. Color Powder. Private Collection, Hanoi
NGUYỄN ĐĂNG PHÚ – Noodle Production Unit – Cầu Niệm Noodle Factory, Hải Phòng. 1971. Color Powder. 39×51 cm. Private Collection, Hanoi
NGUYỄN ĐĂNG PHÚ – Cooperative Watering. 1967. Color Powder. Private Collection, Hanoi
The over 40 color powder paintings from 1967-1980 represent a significant and valuable part of his creative career. They offer more conviction than many of his other works. The simple, sincere, and pure beauty in his color powder paintings from this period resonates deeply with viewers. His nighttime paintings, in particular, stand out as a pinnacle of his career.
Artist Nguyễn Đăng Phú is a son of the port city of Hải Phòng. His paintings, filled with affection for Hải Phòng, are a tribute and expression of love for his birthplace.
Hoàng Anh
