An individual from Nam Dinh showed his admiration and appreciation for the late General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong by staying awake for four days to sculpt a memorial statue. The passing of General Secretary Trong has left a significant impact on the Vietnamese populace, leading to various acts of homage in his memory.

Upon learning of the General Secretary’s demise, Lu Thanh Luan, a resident of Y Yen District, Nam Dinh, initiated the creation of a lifelike statue to honor the departed leader. Despite the typical lengthy process involved in such intricate sculptures, Luan managed to complete the artwork in just four continuous days and nights, relying solely on his memory and skill without any reference materials.

Luan expressed, “Upon hearing the news about General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, I felt a profound sense of loss. I have always admired his modest lifestyle, strong bond with the people, and unwavering commitment to the nation. In order to pay my respects, I dedicated all my time to crafting his statue. Working tirelessly for four days and nights, I took short breaks only when exhaustion set in.”

He opted for cam xe driftwood for the statue, noting, “I chose this type of wood due to its similarity in color to human skin. Carving on this material allows the natural grain to be retained, ensuring the sculpture’s lifelike appearance over time.”

Fashioning a realistic statue from driftwood presents numerous challenges. With rudimentary tools like saws, sanders, and chisels, Luan skillfully chiseled a vibrant and authentic representation of the General Secretary, capturing his essence. Additionally, he incorporated the figure of Ho Chi Minh alongside the General Secretary, symbolizing their shared dedication to the nation.

Despite receiving offers to purchase the statue following its completion, Luan clarified that his unwavering effort stemmed not from monetary interests but from a desire to personally present this heartfelt tribute to the family of the General Secretary.

Having worked as a portrait sculptor for 12 years, specializing in driftwood, Luan’s artistic journey has demanded immense perseverance and dedication. His talent and enthusiasm for wood carving have garnered him a loyal clientele and widespread acclaim.

Alongside the recent statue commemorating General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, Luan’s collection showcases portraits of other prominent Vietnamese figures like Tran Quoc Tuan, President Ho Chi Minh, and General Vo Nguyen Giap. Through each artwork, Luan aims to honor those who have contributed to Vietnam’s progress and instill a sense of patriotism among the younger generation.