Hà Nội launches first Tô Ngọc Vân Award for emerging Vietnamese artists

The first Tô Ngọc Vân Award has been launched in Hà Nội to mark the 120th anniversary of the late artist’s birth. Organised by Mỹ Thuật (Art) Magazine under the Việt Nam Fine Arts Association, the competition invites art students and recent graduates to submit their work. The award is open to all students studying art at universities and colleges in Việt Nam and abroad, as well as those who graduated in 2026. Eligible works must have been created in 2025 or 2026 and must not have been previously submitted to or awarded in any other competitions or exhibitions.

Submissions must align with the theme Sắc Màu Kỷ Nguyên Mới (Colours of a New Era). There is no limit to the number of entries per artist, but each piece must measure at least 30cm in length and width, with no maximum size restrictions.

A jury of prominent art figures, including painters Phạm Bình Chương, Trịnh Minh Tiến, Phạm Trà My, curator Đỗ Tường Linh, and Sophie Huang, will review the entries. Selected works will be displayed at the First Tô Ngọc Vân Award Exhibition from December 6 to 15 at the Exhibition House in Hà Nội.

The prize structure features one Special Prize of VNĐ60 million (US$2,300), one First Prize of VNĐ40 million ($1,500), and one Second Prize of VNĐ30 million ($1,100). The award ceremony and closing event will take place on December 15 at the Workers' Theatre in Hà Nội. The competition aims to celebrate emerging talent in Vietnamese art. Winning works will be recognised and showcased, with the event providing a platform for young artists. The initiative has received the late artist’s family’s approval.