My work proposes an ironic and ambiguous glance on a cultural reality in Vietnam by creating a Beauty Contest and by inviting the public to attend it. The beauty of these young girls can deaden the cultural need of an individual who looks at them, but can it replace the need for cultural and artistic exchanges at the national level, in the globalisation of today?
These last years, one of the most outstanding symbols of the globalisation in Vietnam is the flowering of Miss Contests in all the country. Direct products of the Doi Moi (renovation period), the Miss Contests are extremely applauded by Vietnam, as if they were huge cultural activities. If cultural activities and art disciplines in Vietnam remain timid in front of the globalisation by fear of losing their traditional identity, these Miss Contests on the contrary, and more than ever, keep open spirit, without any concern for the national identity.
Candidates and organizers of Miss Contests are ready to ignore traditional and decency rules for Vietnamese women, in order to show the body's beauty in public places. They are congratulated by Cultural and Ideological Management Services. They are as well admired by the general public. But while a visual art exhibition represents nudity, it receives certainly many criticisms and discussions on the national identity, the Vietnamese manners and the moral values.
Well done Misses! Well done Globalisation!
