'South Vietnam Đông Sơn Drum' B+W

Dong Son Drum Triptych 

The ancient Dong Son drums of Vietnam depicted scenes of daily life and war, animals 🐒, birds 🐦 and boats ⛵️. They were used as musical instruments as well as cult items and were cast out of bronze between 600 BC – 300 AD. They symbolized wealth and prosperity and were treasured items in local villages. Using landmarks, everyday patterns, other influences from living here and travelling up and down the country I have designed my own personal drum faces to represent each region of Vietnam.

Southern Vietnam

The third in the triptych series this drum design is inspired by South Vietnam, mainly around the Mekong Delta, HCMC and surrounding cities. As the first two designs the outer ring is a chronological narrative that visually explores the myths and legends around the formation of this part of the world. If you look closely into the jungle, you will make out images such as the tale of Huntian’s bow. As you move around the circle you will witness the Vietnamese march south, followed by a solidified settlement in the Saigon area and finally the Independence palace to symbolise modern day. 

As you move inwards popular destinations such as Tay Ninh, Mui Ne, floating markets of the Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc beaches and La Gi form a circle around past and current forms of transport associated particularly with South Vietnam. Moving further inward, a mixture of religious influences and icon landmarks make up an ever-evolving modern day metropolis.

Digital reproduction 42x42cm