The trees of legacy in Binh Duong artists’ hearts

Before the changes brought about by industrialization and urbanization, Binh Duong still retains the unique beauty of everyday life. Binh Duong has many ancient trees hundreds of years old, including 3 trees recently recognized by the Vietnam Association for Nature and Environment Protection as Vietnamese Heritage Trees. For artists, these 3 heritage trees not only contribute to creating landscapes and ecological values, but also serve as historical evidence, cultural beauty, and pride for many generations.

The skunk tree in this picture is genuinely a witness of cultural and art activities in Binh Duong throughout the history

In Binh Duong, there are 3 heritage trees recognized as Vietnam's Heritage Trees. Artist Ly Bach Hue joyfully shared with us about the pride and unforgettable memories. The impression of the skunk tree in the courtyard of the Binh Duong College of Arts and Culture made the female artist burst into tears. Artist Ly Bach Hue recalled that day going to the school to perform poetry on the occasion of Lunar New Year, seeing a majestic palm tree spreading coolness across the schoolyard, leaving her in awe. She felt a romantic sensation as she suddenly remembered the late poet Thu Bon (husband of artist Ly Bach Hue) "You are the shade tree that shelters me for a lifetime."

Mentioning the intertwined kơ-nia and banyan trees at Tuong Binh Hiep Temple (Tuong Binh Hiep ward, Thu Dau Mot city), artist Ly Bach Hue's eyes light up with many memories. Seeing the image of the two embracing trees, the female artist recalled the songs of ‘Duoi bong cay Kho Nia’ (in the shadow of the kơ-nia tree) but also because of their unique embrace, she chose the place to film excerpts of the cai-luong – ‘Lan and Diep’ and ‘Duong vao dao’ (a pathway to faith).

In the memory of photographer Đặng Hồng Long (member of the provincial Literature and Arts Association), there used to be a palm tree next to the riverbank, with rows of red phoenix trees, and a famous restaurant... creating a very beautiful scenery. Photography artists often choose this place to take commemorative photos, hunt for artistic photos, to capture moments of a destination that cannot be missed whenever visiting Binh Duong.

With artist Truong Anh Dung, a teacher at the Intermediate School of Fine Arts and Culture in Binh Duong, the palm tree has been a constant companion throughout his student life. Under the shade of the tree is the parking spot for students' bikes and provides a cool shelter for a corner of the school yard. Under the tree, there are many benches placed for students and teachers to exchange ideas. Next to the river, the cool breeze mixes with the gentle sound of waves, the tall tree not only exudes a majestic presence but also leaves a lasting impression in the students' lives with the green color of the school and the rugged features as if protecting. Thanks to the tree's appearance, the artist Anh Dung gradually developed a deep love for nature, and it also became his inspiration in his works about trees.

Excitedly recounting to us stories about the palm tree, sculptor Chau Tram Anh's house, and the teacher at the Mỹ Thuật - Văn hóa Bình Dương Intermediate School, he mentioned that he is a graduate of this school and is very proud of the palm tree that is closely associated with the school's history. This is where many beauty-related professions are trained for life and many generations of artisans and students have contributed to the reputation of Thủ - Bình Dương in traditional handicraft fields. Every time he has an idea for a work, the palm tree is where he often chooses to have a space for drawing and painting. Grateful for the shade of the palm tree, this young sculptor has created a bas-relief artwork in the large hall of the school with images of various professions being trained and even the image of the palm tree casting shade.

Beside the pride in the 3 heritage trees in Binh Duong, artists also express concerns about caring for and preserving the trees in the future. Artist Tran Minh Hai (member of the Theater Association, Provincial Literary and Art Association) stated that those 3 heritage trees are historical evidence of the formation and development of Binh Duong. Therefore, he always hopes that heritage trees will be cared for and preserved as an important part of the spiritual life of the people of Binh Duong, where 3 heritage trees are recognized.

Reported by Thuc Van – Translated by Vi Bao

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