The association has awarded nine top works with a prize of VND10 million (US$476), many of which highlight the nation's seas and islands.— Photo tuoitre

HCM CITY (VNS)— A new exhibition of 163 paintings, sculpture and other art works has opened at the HCM City Fine Arts Museum as part of celebrations of the 68th National Day, which falls on September 2.

Uyen Huy, chairman of the HCM City Fine Arts Association, said: "On display works are the results of eight creative camps that the association had launched since August 2012."

He said the works reflected a wide range of topics, covering daily life, city's development over the years, the task of protecting the nation's seas and islands, and learning important lessons from President Ho Chi Minh.

The association has awarded nine top works with a prize of VND10 million (US$476), many of which highlight the nation's seas and islands.

These include: Thong Diep Hoa Binh (Message of Peace), an engraved painting by Nam Anh; Trai Tim Bien Dao (Heart of Seas and Islands), a sculpture made with general materials by Tran Van Binh; and Binh Minh Tren Dao Nam Du (Dawn on Nam Du Island), a water colour by Truong Lo.

Seventeen other works were selected for prizes of VND7 million each.

Ten young artists were given prizes of VND3.5 million each to nurture promising talent.

Huy said the works of a large number of young artists were being displayed at the exhibition.

"We highly appreciate their efforts and will continue to encourage and support young talents in creating art," he said.The exhibition will be open to the public at 97A Pho Duc Chinh Street in District 1 until August 30. — VNS