The winners of the prestigious Ho Chi Minh and State Awards in 2012 are being featured in an exhibition at the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum that will run until August 5.

Up to 38 award-winning pieces have been contributed by 19 Vietnamese painters, sculptors and photographers.

The exhibition, opened on July 30, aims to honour the contribution of artists to national culture and provide insight into the landscape and daily life of Vietnam's people, including their struggle during times of war. The event will also mark the August Revolution and National Day on September 2.

One of the most distinctive artworks on display includes the lacquer painting Thieu Nu Trong Vuon (Maidens in the Garden) from late artist Nguyen Gia Tri, who is remembered as Vietnam's leading lacquer artist. The painting itself is revered as the most beautiful lacquer painting in Vietnam.

Also on show are two photo series entitled The Truong Son – Ho Chi Minh Trail during the US resistance by Vuong Khanh Hong, and Triumphant Return from Prison by former Vietnam News Agency photographer, Chu Chi Thanh. Both have well received by the artistic community.-VNA