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陳梁

TRẦN Lương

Though the communist bloc collapsed in the late 1980s, communism still exists in some countries today. More than a quarter of the world’s population continues to live under the dictatorial rule of this regime. In both communist and former-communist countries, the traumatic effect of the ideological and socio-economic spirit of communism can still be felt. It is a specter that threatens the younger generations in all respects, from environmental issues to corruption, from ethics to a crisis of confidence.

Specifically in Vietnam, violence and a lack of human rights have become increasingly severe, and the continuous psychological pressure on the populace leads to outbreaks of unrest. The government is an engine of corruption,
with party members protecting the party at all cost, ignoring the interests of the nation and the future of the country.

Incredibly, in the 20th century, mummified remains and monumental mausoleums of former communist leaders have reappeared. Like a stain in the evolution of human civilization, these have become the physical evidence trapped within the flow of history.

Optical Feedback from the Mausoleums are images that reflect a period of history. The beginning of communism, its global impact, and its remnants have and will continue to directly impact millions of people, including ourselves and our families.

A red flag flying in the desolate sky after the storm can only be an illusion and an echo of the past, but its consequences still affect a nation’s future. Problems such as a lack of social responsibility, addiction and violence, selfishness and selfcensorship are rampant in our society. A mood of constant “depression” envelops the general public, including me… Perhaps these paintings were created in a state of depression.