Marble marvel: Fabian Saeren's work, Research Philosophy III, won top prize at the International Sculpture Symposium in HCM City. — VNA/VNS Photo Phuong Vy

HCM CITY  (VNS) — Belgium sculptor Fabian Saeren won top prize at the International Sculpture Symposium, which closed yesterday in HCM City.

Saeren's large work Research Philosophy III was made of marble and bluestone, his favourite material.

Saeren has taken part in many national and international symposiums.

Two sculptors from Viet Nam, Do The Thinh and Ngo Liem, also won top prizes with works Ket Noi (Connection) and Doi Ca (Life of Fish), respectively.

The Symposium was organised by the Ministry of Culture, Sport and Tourism and the city's People's Committee at Suoi Tien Cultural Tourist Park in District 9 from December 1 to 15.

The event featured 50 works by 39 sculptors from Viet Nam, Russia, Iran, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Belgium, Romania, Japan and China.

The artists used various materials, including stone, aluminum and stainless steel, to make works that reflect the city's development in economy, education and culture, and its integration with the world 40 years after liberation.

Nguyen Thi Thu, deputy chairwoman of the People's Committee, said: "The HCM City International Sculpture Symposium is a chance for Vietnamese and foreign sculptors to share their ideas and experiences in sculpture as well as create excellent works which help HCM City become more beautiful."

"It also promotes the development of the city's sculpture. Through the symposium, we also hope young people learn more about art," she added.

The works in the symposium are planned to be placed along Nguyen Hue pedestrian street, Bach Dang Wharf in District 1, the banks of the Nhieu Loc-Thi Nghe canal, and Vo Van Kiet Boulevard. — VNS