From everyday materials and heartfelt expressions, young Vietnamese artists—including those with special needs—have painted a world filled with hope, empathy, and resilience in the “What A Wonderful World” art competition hosted by Pan Pacific Hanoi. Fourteen outstanding artworks were honoured, each a vivid testament to the power of creativity that transcends limits.
Carrying a message of environmental love, community spirit, and human imagination, the Pan Pacific Hanoi Art Award 2025 concluded with a heartfelt awards ceremony on 17 April 2025 at Pan Pacific Hanoi. Organised in collaboration with the Vietnam University of Fine Arts, the event welcomed young talents, art professionals, media representatives, and esteemed guests from across the country.
Launched in September 2024, the competition was open to two participant groups: emerging artists aged 18–30 who are pursuing careers in Hanoi, and artists with special needs aged 12–35. This year’s theme challenged participants to create meaningful works addressing global issues such as nature, environment, society, innovation, and community-building.
Over the course of five months, the organisers received 112 submissions from 99 artists nationwide. From oil on canvas and traditional paper to wood carving and paper cutting, these works explored diverse narratives with depth and originality.
Fourteen outstanding artists were recognised at the ceremony. The First Prize in the special needs category was awarded to Lai Thanh Quang for “Tam Coc Afternoon Sunlight”—a striking piece celebrating Vietnam’s cultural heritage and calling for its preservation through the language of visual art. Emotional highlights of the event included the stories of Huynh Thi Thanh, a young woman who paints with her feet, and Bui Thi Hao (Thom), who paints using her mouth—both inspiring the audience with their courage and creativity.
In the young artist category, Nguyen Thi Nhien claimed First Prize for “Glittering”, a hauntingly beautiful depiction of a teardrop on a girl’s face, symbolising the planet’s fragile future amidst climate change.
Other remarkable works such as “Through the Window,” “The Natural Environment,” “Real Connection,” and “Vietnamese Culture Around the World” reflected bold perspectives, artistic growth, and a deep engagement with contemporary issues.
Through this initiative, Pan Pacific Hanoi continues to affirm its role as a supporter of local arts and a champion for inclusion—particularly in empowering artists with special needs.
From 22 April to 2 June 2025, all 14 winning works will be publicly exhibited in the hotel lobby, offering visitors a rare opportunity to witness stories of talent, strength, and hope told through the language of art.