The German Embassy in Hanoi and the Vietnam Institute of Culture and Arts Studies (VICAS), recently launched the Buddy Bear Art Competition as part of activities to commemorate the 45th anniversary of the two countries' diplomatic ties.

Three winners of the Buddy Bear Art Competition

Artists were invited to present their concepts, ideas, and visions on the subject of joint ties by creating a Buddy Bear.

Out of the 14 applications, the judging panel selected designs by artists Chu Thuy Quynh, Nguyen Xuan Lam, and Phung Van Tue as the winning artworks. The three artists designed the Buddy Bears in their homes due to the social distancing period imposed as a result of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

During a recent reception held at the residence of German Ambassador to Vietnam Dr. Guido Hildner, each of the art contest’s three winners were awarded VND15 million.

Visitors will be able to view the three Buddy Bears from November 16 at the exhibition hall of the VICAS Art Studio.

Originating from an art project in 2001, Buddy Bears have become a landmark of Berlin and are considered unofficial ambassadors of Germany, with their outstretched arms representing both friendliness and optimism.

The "United Buddy Bears" were later created in 2002, with an exhibition of approximately 140 Buddy Bears designed by artists from UN members promoting peaceful coexistence between people of all races, cultures, and religions. Since their first exhibition held in Berlin, over 40 million visitors have already admired the Buddy Bears.