Jindivick to Vietnam: Laurie on exchange
Sculptor Laurie Collins recently made the journey from Jindivick to Vietnam to be part of the 1st International Fine Arts Exchange Workshop and Exhibition.
Laurie, from Jindivick, was one of 25 artists involved from across the world. In addition to six artists from Vietnam, artists travelled from Mauritius, USA, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, Japan, China, France, Germany, Italy, South Korea, Russia and two from Australia.
“I had my doubts about the heat but thought I should be okay,” said Laurie.
“I wanted to experience Vietnam and see Danang and catch up with some people I had met at previous Thai art workshops.
“One of the most joyful parts is meeting artists from different countries and interacting at a social and professional level,” he added.
During the workshop, Laurie was taken to a new hotel where the participants painted and sculpted works.
“I did one big piece and five small pieces mainly using recycled metal,” he said.
In addition to the heat challenge, Laurie quickly learnt the Vietnamese artists generally work on the ground and his tall stature made this difficult.
“I had trouble on the first day trying to work at that level by bending down,” said Laurie. “But once I created a more waist height bench area for myself, I was able to proceed happily.”
After three days of work, an exhibition of the works was set up at Danang Fine Arts Museum. The aim of the show was to help create a sense that Danang was an international art city with all artworks, after the show, becoming part of the Ministry of Culture’s Collection.
“The opening was an impressive event and was well attended by local dignitaries and some expats and the art community,” said Laurie.
To learn more about Laurie’s Vietnam art tour, visit lauriecollins.com.au.