He then meticulously shapes the sand into intricate designs, often inspired by nature and traditional Vietnamese culture. ## The Art of Sand Sculpting Sand sculpting is an ancient art form that has been practiced for centuries. It requires patience, precision, and a keen eye for detail.

The Artistic Journey of Dung

Dung’s artistic journey is a testament to his dedication and passion for capturing the essence of Vietnamese culture and history. His works, which range from two to seven days in completion, showcase his ability to convey deep emotions and stories through his art. ### The Depiction of Iconic Locations

• Dung’s most famous works include depictions of the Rong Bridge, the Song Han Bridge, and late President Ho Chi Minh. * These iconic locations serve as a backdrop for his art, allowing him to explore the rich history and cultural significance of Vietnam.

  Dung’s pursuit of sand art mastery has not been without its challenges. At times, the extensive time investment and meager financial returns have led him to contemplate abandoning his artistic endeavor. In addition to the hours spent crafting his intricate sand sculptures, Dung embarks on lengthy journeys, covering over 500 kilometers between Da Nang and Binh Thuan and Ninh Thuan Provinces, to procure the essential raw material for his art. Only in the last few years has Dung’s work become popular, earning his recognition at exhibitions and fairs. His works are increasingly sought after as souvenirs and birthday gifts, providing him with a more stable income.

  Prices for his sand paintings range from several hundred thousand to several million Vietnamese dong, depending on their complexity and size. (VND100,000 = US$4) Aside from making art, Dung trains a small cohort of young people, hoping that the popularity of sand as a medium will continue to grow. Here are some other unique sand paintings created by Phan Quang Dung. Photo: Thanh Nguyen / Tuoi Tre Crafting sand paintings demands intense concentration and focus. Photo: Thanh Nguyen / Tuoi Tre Phan Quang Dung recreates the image of the Dragon Bridge in Da Nang using an array of colorful grains of sand. Photo: Thanh Nguyen / Tuoi Tre

  Phan Quang Dung’s artwork, which is a blend of traditional Vietnamese culture and modern art, has been exhibited in various international galleries. His unique technique of using sand to create intricate patterns and designs has gained recognition worldwide. Phan Quang Dung’s journey to collect sand is not just a quest for materials but also a spiritual experience. He believes that each grain of sand carries a unique energy and story, which he incorporates into his artwork.