[In Photos] Reviving memories of traditional Mid-Autumn lanterns

With the desire to restore traditional Mid-Autumn lanterns that have faded from public memory, and with dedication to preserving traditional crafts, artisan Doan Thai Cuc Huong has brought to the exhibition nostalgic works made from rattan, bamboo, do paper, and natural earth pigments friendly to the environment.

The “Carp Transforming into Dragon” Mid-Autumn lantern made of do paper at the art exhibition “Lam”.
The “Carp Transforming into Dragon” Mid-Autumn lantern made of do paper at the art exhibition “Lam”.

Taking place from September 6 to 14, 2025, the exhibition “Lam” by Doan Thai Cuc Huong brings traditional Mid-Autumn lantern models closer to contemporary audiences.

The exhibition is open free of charge from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Ai Tra Art Centre (Ha Noi).

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Craftswoman Doan Thai Cuc Huong arranges her “Pomegranate Lantern” to welcome visitors to the exhibition.
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Young art enthusiasts admire the Mid-Autumn “Pomegranate” and “Crab” lanterns.
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Do paper, earth pigments, bamboo fibre, diep powder, the Hang Trong To Nu paintings, and the old star-shaped lantern frame together create nostalgic models imbued with Vietnamese cultural essence.
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The author with her “Carp Transforming into Dragon” creation.
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The traditional Mid-Autumn lanterns creatively crafted by the artisan drew much attention from visitors, especially children.
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Mid-Autumn lantern shaped like a shrimp, made of dó paper, painted with earth colours and courtly floral motifs
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Colourful butterfly-shaped lanterns at the exhibition.
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The author guides a child in arranging the works to attract visitors.
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Out of curiosity and a spirit of challenge, the “Mantis Lantern” was created with great effort, ensuring harmonious colours and translucency when lit from within.
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The Butterfly Canopy lantern symbolises the wish for a Mid-Autumn full of vibrant colours.
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In addition to lanterns, masks inspired by tuong and hat boi theatre arts also offer visitors distinctive experiences at the exhibition.
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