Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural, Hanoi

The Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural, also known as the Hanoi Ceramic Road, is a remarkable public art installation in Hanoi. It extends along the dike system of the Red River, showcasing a rich tapestry of Vietnam's cultural history through vibrant ceramic mosaics. The concept for the mural was developed by journalist Nguyễn Thu Thủy, who aimed to beautify the city's dike system while celebrating its historical and cultural heritage.

Thủy's vision won her a prize in a local architecture contest, and the project commenced in 2007. The mural stretches approximately 6 kilometers, culminating at the Long Biên Bridge pier. This extensive artwork was strategically completed in 2010 to commemorate the Millennial Anniversary of Hanoi.

Funding for the initial 450 meters of the mural was provided by the Ford Foundation, which also supported necessary planning, training, and infrastructure. The tiles used in the mural are sourced from Bát Tràng, a village renowned for its exquisite porcelain, ensuring the use of local materials and traditional craftsmanship.

The mural features a variety of designs that reflect different eras in Vietnamese history. Modern artworks, paintings depicting Hanoi, and children's drawings are also interspersed throughout the mosaic, creating a blend of historical and contemporary art.

In recognition of its scale and artistic value, the mural was awarded a Guinness World Record on October 5, 2010, as the world's largest ceramic mosaic. The adjudication confirmed the mural's size at 3,850 linear meters, solidifying its place in record books.

The project has continued to evolve, with new segments being added over the years, including contributions from international artists like Chilean Alexandro Mono Gonzalez and cultural representations from various countries such as Sri Lanka. Plans are underway to expand the mural further, despite challenges such as graffiti on newly built segments of the dike.

The Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural stands as a testament to cultural pride, international cooperation, and the transformative power of art in public spaces, continuing to captivate both residents and visitors of Hanoi.