A series of multi-sensory experiences about Xam takes place with the participation of various genres such as experimental music, painting exhibitions, installation art and professional talks. Before the development of the Covid-19 pandemic, the opening and closing ceremonies, seminars and workshops have been converted into an online form to meet the current requirements on pandemic prevention.
Xam is a type of folklore associated with the visually impaired. Although Xam does not see life with his eyes, Xam reflects very true and profound perspectives on life (expressed through the content of the songs, etc.) Those perspectives are still valid until now.
In recent years, the trend of using traditional performing arts materials to create contemporary art products has become increasingly popular. In particular, folk performances are promoted from many angles, including visual effects. Since then, a number of exhibitions, fashion shows, plays, movies, etc. have been created with unique creations based on traditional performing art materials.
Xam inherently does not have as many shaping materials as some other traditional performing arts. However, with the inspiration from the concepts, contemporary artists are expected to contribute to Mat Xam with unique perspectives and breakthroughs, arousing the public’s interest in learning about the heritage and also creating new works bearing the spirit of connecting “ Ancient and contemporary Eastern & Western regions”.
The series of experiential events “Mat Xam” is not only Xam from the perspective of visual approach but also different perspectives and views about Xam. Experiencing many ups and downs, Xam has gone through many prisms of many generations and without exception, the young people – the owners who continue the legacy today also have their own strange prisms…
The exhibition space of “Mat Xam” is divided into many areas, the front area has a painting with 3 different expressions of Xam singers, inspired by the song “Muc ha vo nhan”. The side space has a painting of Xam singer, Mrs. Ha Thi Cau and reportage materials on young people singing Xam for continuing the tradition.
Front space.
Oil painting on canvas, titled Artisan Ha Thi Cau, by artist Tran Thi Truong.
“The legendary forest” is an installation space inspired by the story of the Xam singing profession. The multi-faceted space “Mat Xam” has set up eyes from 200 xenh and a pair of Xam drums. The message implied is to look at Xam from as many angles as possible to see all its beauty.
Legendary space
Train space.
“Mat Xam” from 200 ‘xenh’ and giant Xam drums.
On the opening day of May 16, there will also be an online talkshow of singing Xam in cultural adaptation. Then, the online talkshow of singing Xam from the perspective of a young artist will takes place on May 19 and 22.
The organizers recommend that visitors to the exhibition please comply with strict regulations on safety and prevention of pandemic. The organizers will provide medical masks, antiseptic solutions and measure body temperature for all spectators to enjoy the exhibition.
“Mat xam” is built with the support of the British Council through the project of Vietnam Cultural and Creative Space 2018-2021. This is a project funded by the European Union and the British Council and by the Vietnam British Council in collaboration with the Vietnam National Institute of Culture and Arts Studies – Vicas.
Kieu Anh