Last Friday we took our students to downtown Vientiane at the Parkson Mall's top floor where they had an art show by LCAE or Lao Contemporary Art Exhibition and a craft expo called Hand-Made which they have at this time every year. Most of my students took selfies and snuck out of the exhibition to do some shopping, but they did send me some of the lovely photos in this post. A lot of us weren't that excited to see art, but once we got there, the beautiful local contemporary artists drew us into their worlds. Although I cropped and touched up some of our best photos they could never do justice to seeing the artwork in person.
Kalia discovered her love for drawing at a young age, which shaped her creative journey. Growing up in Laos, she didn’t expect to pursue art until a recommendation led her to study it. Initially unsure, her passion grew as she explored new ideas and learned from others.
In 2023, she fully embraced being an artist, experimenting with different styles. Her work expresses deep emotions and thoughts through various forms. Kalia continues to explore and evolve, seeking the artistic voice that resonates with her.
Mr. Phoudthasone Souksompheng, known as PhoudDoodle, was born in 1999 and is based in Vientiane, Laos. A self-taught artist since 2020, he creates positivity through his imaginary doodle monsters and works in doodling, painting, digital art, and wood carving. PhoudDoodle has collaborated with brands like CRAZIMAZING and exhibited in Laos and Thailand. He has won several awards in the NFT space, including the Invisible Friend Pre-Reveal Contest and the Galactic Konquest Art Competition. Inspired by Picasso's quote about childlike creativity, he draws from a child's imagination for his expressive doodle art. Outside of his studio, he enjoys teaching art workshops, playing badminton, reading, and practicing mindfulness. His work continues to inspire with its imaginative characters.
In a dreamlike world, a young man with a cat’s face held tightly to the innocence of his childhood. A pink balloon glowed in his hand as melting clocks symbolized time slipping away. He journeyed through valleys of illusions, realizing that time shouldn’t be rushed or confined.
As he watched the balloon rise, reflecting dreams and hope, the world around him changed, but he remained standing in hope. He longed to return to the innocence of childhood, knowing that in those moments, he had found the true meaning of life.
Simon Drost, a painter and illustrator from Apeldoorn, the Netherlands, has dedicated over 46 years to the meticulous cultivation of his artistic oeuvre.
Laos, where Simon often resides, is a significant wellspring of inspiration for his art. His fascination with prehistory profoundly influences his artistic ventures and academic pursuits, seamlessly integrating philosophical musings and meticulous research into his creative process.
Central to Simon's work is the presentation of Divinity as Feminine, God as Mother—an ancient notion regarding the Nature of Spirit, from which the universes emanate and into which they will dissolve again. This Transcendental Principle of Spirit veils itself within the limitations of mind and matter, only to unveil itself when the mind is absorbed in ecstasy, transcending these limitations.
Vayu Vivongsa, born in Houaphan Province, is a young Lao artist with a deep passion for futurism, abstract, and surrealism. He has been drawing since childhood, and in 2021, he began formal studies at the National Institute of Fine Arts (NIFA).
Living far from his family to pursue education in the city, Vayu navigates the challenges of balancing work and study. Art has become his refuge and source of joy, helping him find peace amidst the chaos of urban life.
His work reflects his fascination with the future and abstract expressions of his personal experiences. Vayu’s creations are a testament to his evolving artistic journey, making him a fresh voice in contemporary Lao art.
Life is a journey filled with love, hope, inspiration, suffering, and happiness—difficult to understand yet universal. In this artwork, geometric shapes symbolize the intricacies of life. Under the theme of hope, the sub-theme of dreams reflects the light that guides us forward. This piece tells a story of love, particularly the love of parents for their children, and the hope for a better future.
Theng Veuangvong
Born in 2002 in Laos, Mina Inthavong is a rising talent in contemporary Laotian art. Her creative journey began in 2018 during high school, where she first discovered her love for drawing and painting. What started as a casual hobby soon became a source of joy and reflection.
Inspired by the diverse art forms she encountered online, Mina's curiosity deepened, and in 2024, she began creating her own works. Her art draws from life, emotions, and the concept of freedom, often reflecting personal experiences and memories.
Mina's work carries a raw, expressive energy, capturing the complexities of modern life. As she continues to grow, her art remains a heartfelt exploration of her inner world, blending her past with her present in a unique way.
Khambang Sibunkhoun was born in 2003 in Attapeu Province, Laos. She has been interested in drawing since she was a child, starting her art journey in primary school. Inspired by her father and close friends who shared her passion for art, she was able to fully tap into her creative potential. In 2022, she fully immersed herself in the world of contemporary art, and began creating in 2023. Her artwork focuses on emotive concepts and self-reflection, often reflecting her personal experiences and growth. Her unique perspective explores the tender yet profound aspects of life, revealing diverse and fascinating perspectives through her creative expressions.
Vongnam Vongvilay is a renowned Lao artist and creative pioneer, celebrated for his work in advertising, fine arts, and graphic design. A graduate of the Central Art School of Komárno in Slovakia, he specializes in oil painting and sculpture, exploring the intersection of traditional and contemporary art.
Throughout his career, Vongnam has showcased his art in Slovakia and beyond, mastering techniques such as painting, watercolor, and sculpture. His passion for Lao culture is reflected in his work, which deeply connects with the natural beauty and heritage of Laos.
As the founder of Khounta Sign Advertising Co., Ltd., Vongnam has applied his creative expertise to the business world, establishing a leading company well-known for 3D displays and exhibition organization.
A pioneer in Lao font design, he created the Vongnam fonts to address gaps in Lao typography, developing nearly 20 unique fonts over the years. His work not only introduced a fresh visual style but also reflected a deep connection to Lao culture. His fonts have significantly shaped the country's graphic design, appearing in office signs, corporate banners, and royal mottos, leaving a lasting impact on Lao visual identity.
LCAE or Lao Contemporary Art Exhibition was really cool and had great guides who explained everything clearly. They support local artists and disabled kids. They must get donations because visiting the show was free. They just asked to secure bags.
The rest of these photos were taken by my students who didn't get the artists' info, but took great shots which is an art in itself.
This was my favorite display because the artist made you feel like you were in her imagination. This is a wonderful picture, but it was way more engaging in 3D.
This was the best work from the young artists. It didn't say the age of the children whose artwork was on display, but I bet it was from primary. I'm sure they'll continue to create colorful masterpieces.
Thanks for checking out all this lovely Lao contemporary art with us today. I hope you can see it in person next year.
ICAE
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