Vietnamese artist Tia-Thuy Nguyen captivates audiences with her imaginative and immersive installations, showcasing her creative prowess.
Her latest masterpiece, ‘Drops of the Sun’, has been unveiled to art enthusiasts in Monaco, adding a vibrant and unique dimension to the transformative Monaco – Mareterra project.
The inauguration was graced by esteemed figures and officials, including Prince Albert II of Monaco, former Minister of State Serge Telle, billionaire Patrice Pastor, and Vanessa Tubino, among other distinguished guests, highlighting the significance of this artistic endeavor.
Guests were immersed in an exploration of the creative process, learning about the intricate collaboration between over 3,000 workers, leading architects, and the artist’s vision. They discovered the harmonious blend of architecture and nature, with Mareterra extending the existing coastline and celebrating Mediterranean spirit.
This new district, Mareterra, is a collaborative effort by world-renowned designers, architects, engineers, and ecologists, working in symphony with nature. It encompasses residential, cultural, and recreational spaces, offering a unique experience.
Drops of the Sun: Captivating Light and Stone Symphony
SAM L’Anse Du Portier, the organization behind Mareterra, recognized the talent of Tia-Thuy Nguyen, inviting her to create not just an artwork but a narrative that connects people with the essence of Monaco’s nature.
With a deep reverence for nature’s ever-evolving beauty, Tia-Thuy Nguyen immersed herself in the landscapes, light, and natural elements of Monaco. Her installation, ‘Drops of the Sun’, captures the rugged charm of coastal cliffs and the radiant brilliance of natural light, offering a sanctuary from the bustling city life.
The artist’s intention was to create a space that fosters serenity and tranquility, a place where individuals can escape the haste of daily life, recharge their energy, and find peace within themselves.
Tia-Thuy Nguyen has crafted a room that stands apart from the outside world, akin to a private sanctuary. ‘Drops of the Sun’ is a harmonious and calming space where natural light dances through pink quartz windows, creating an ethereal ambiance that transforms throughout the day.
Drops of the Sun comprises four enchanting elements:
Natural Light: Radiant sunlight filters through, casting a dreamy, pink hue that shifts throughout the day, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
Quartz Cloud Painting: Over four tonnes of meticulously selected quartz form a vibrant artwork, resembling drifting clouds in soft, graceful motion.
Light Prism: A striking 1,400kg pink glass block suspends from the ceiling, casting mesmerizing light patterns, adding a delicate touch to the installation.
Reincarnation Window: A solid stone block symbolizes the eternal cycle of energy, connecting viewers to the soul of the installation and the essence of nature.
Tia-Thuy Nguyen engaged in warm conversations with the press and guests, who were intrigued to learn of her Vietnamese origin. She offered profound insights into her creative process, impressing attendees with the intricate details and dedication that went into crafting this masterpiece.
As guests spent time within the installation, they discovered the narrative of energy flow and symbolic details, such as the cycle of Samsara, woven throughout the artwork, creating a deeper connection and appreciation for the artist’s vision.
“I felt a sense of anxiety being alone among esteemed guests and officials in a foreign place,” Tia-Thuy Nguyen shared. “But as I began to speak, everything flowed naturally, and I realized that my three years of preparation had led to this moment.”
She further expressed her delight in being part of a project with the largest budget in Europe for this century and represented Vietnamese artists on an international stage, bridging traditional fine arts with contemporary values.
A Monumental Healing Installation: A Two-Year Creative Journey
The impressive scale of ‘Drops of the Sun’ stands at 2.6 meters tall, spanning five meters, covering all four walls of a 25-square-meter room. Beyond its visual impact, the installation conveys a powerful message of nature’s healing powers.
Tia-Thuy Nguyen and her dedicated team of 25 artisans faced numerous challenges, from selecting the perfect quartz to crafting seamless color transitions. The light prism, in particular, required meticulous calculations to ensure aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
With over 15,000 hours of dedicated work, spanning two years, this masterpiece was brought to life. It showcases Tia-Thuy Nguyen’s exceptional talent for harnessing light and her advanced techniques in stone arrangement and setting.
The installation invites viewers to step into a world where natural light takes center stage, with a light framework on the ceiling, allowing colors to shift throughout the day and in response to changing weather conditions. Each visitor will have a unique experience, depending on the time of day and their own personal mood.
“I am eager to hear the rich and diverse stories that viewers will create from their experiences within this installation,” the artist expressed. “My hope is that it will elevate concepts of freedom, love, and healing, offering a unique perspective on life and the universe.”
Tia-Thuy Nguyen’s ‘Drops of the Sun’ transcends commercial boundaries, commissioned by a visionary investor from the Mediterranean coast. It serves as a reminder that within the chaos of life, there are gentle moments that nourish the soul, providing a sense of peace and connection to nature.