1990

The year 1990 marked a pivotal moment in Vietnam’s history and culture as the country entered the Renovation period, experiencing profound economic and social changes. This historical and cultural context had a significant impact on artistic works, providing opportunities for artists to express diversity in their creativity and explore new themes that reflected the country’s transformation. The literary, musical, visual, and cinematic works produced in 1990 enriched Vietnam’s cultural and artistic landscape, leaving a lasting impression on the public.

1. Historical Context of Vietnam in 1990

1990 was a key year in Vietnam’s history, unfolding amidst major international changes and the continuation of the Đổi Mới process, initiated in 1986.

Vietnam was in the early stages of its economic reform, transitioning from a centrally planned economy to a socialist-oriented market economy. By 1990, the country’s economy began to recover after a prolonged period of hardship. Policies encouraging private sector development, foreign investment, and market liberalization started to show positive results.

On the political front, the Communist Party of Vietnam reaffirmed its leadership in the country’s development. However, 1990 was also a time when socialist countries in Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union faced dissolution, prompting Vietnam to adjust its foreign and domestic strategies in response to these global changes. In the same year, Vietnam began strengthening diplomatic ties with Western countries, particularly the United States, as part of its efforts to normalize relations.

1990 also witnessed the collapse of the Soviet Union and the socialist bloc in Eastern Europe, which was a significant blow to Vietnam, as these were its traditional allies. Nevertheless, Vietnam quickly adjusted its foreign policy, expanding relations with other nations and laying the foundation for international integration, seeking trade and investment opportunities from capitalist countries.

2. Cultural Context of Vietnam in 1990

The Đổi Mới process not only had a profound impact on the economy but also dramatically changed the cultural landscape. In 1990, Vietnamese culture entered a new era with greater freedom of artistic expression. Writers, musicians, and artists were encouraged to explore a wider range of subjects, not only limited to traditional themes but also addressing more diverse and personal topics related to social and individual life.

The country’s openness led to increased exposure to Western cultural trends, resulting in a greater diversity of artistic creation. Fields such as cinema, music, and literature began to transform, influenced by modern and international movements.

Alongside the economic development and cultural exchanges with the world, there was a resurgence of interest in preserving and honoring national cultural values. Traditional arts, folk culture, and crafts—such as tuồng, chèo, and cải lương—were revitalized and grew stronger during this period.

3. The Impact of Vietnam’s Historical and Cultural Context on Art in 1990

3.1. Immediate Impact (1990)

In 1990, Vietnamese art entered a new era of openness and diversity in creative expression. Artists explored a wide range of subjects, from social and economic issues to the everyday lives of individuals in the context of change. Art was no longer confined by rigid rules but instead blended modern and traditional elements, combining domestic and international cultural influences.

Art during this period began to reflect more clearly the transformation of Vietnamese society post-Đổi Mới. Literary, musical, and cinematic works not only served propagandistic purposes but also deeply portrayed the psychological and lifestyle changes of the Vietnamese people in the emerging market economy.

3.2. Long-term Impact (Future)

The year 1990 laid the foundation for a period of modern and diverse artistic development in Vietnam. The works produced during this time were exploratory and expansive, paving the way for major changes in art, not only in the early Đổi Mới era but also in the decades to come.

The impact of international cultural exchange in 1990 had a lasting influence on Vietnamese art. Vietnamese artists learned from global trends while also incorporating modern elements with traditional cultural values, creating works that were both personal and unique.

4. Notable Artistic Works of 1990

4.1. Literature

“Cánh đồng bất tận” (The Endless Field) by Nguyễn Ngọc Tư is considered one of the finest short stories depicting the lives of people in the Mekong Delta region after the Đổi Mới period. The work vividly portrays the economic, social, and psychological changes of individuals as they transitioned from a centrally planned economy to a market-oriented one.

“Nỗi buồn chiến tranh” (The Sorrow of War) by Bảo Ninh, though first published in 1987, had a major influence in 1990 and continues to be recognized as one of the classic works of modern Vietnamese literature. The novel explores the theme of war and its psychological impact on people after the conflict.

4.2. Music

“Một cõi đi về” (A Realm to Return) by Trịnh Công Sơn is one of the most significant compositions by Trịnh Công Sơn during the Đổi Mới period. It is deeply philosophical, reflecting on life, people, and the changing times. The song demonstrates the profound depth of Vietnamese music and culture during this period of transformation.

“Hà Nội và tôi” (Hanoi and Me) by Lê Vinh is a song that celebrates the beauty of Hanoi, composed as the country was entering the Đổi Mới era and opening up to the world. Its tranquil yet emotional melody expresses a deep love for Hanoi amidst societal change.

4.3. Painting

Nguyễn Tư Nghiêm, one of Vietnam’s master painters, continued to create art in 1990. His works during this period focused on traditional cultural themes combined with modern styles, reflecting the societal changes taking place in Vietnam during the Đổi Mới period.

Another prominent Vietnamese artist, Dương Bích Liên, continued to produce abstract works that explored the human psyche and emotions in the rapidly changing social environment.

4.4. Cinema

The film “Đời cát” (Sandy Life) directed by Nguyễn Thanh Vân was released in 1990 and was highly regarded for its artistic quality. The film tells the story of a family’s life after the war, exploring inner conflicts and the harmony between humans and nature. “Đời cát” won several international awards, marking significant progress and renewal in Vietnamese cinema.