Sisters in the Family

“Sisters in the Family” confronts us with a visual paradox: a seemingly harmonious scene fractured into two distinct halves, each teeming with unspoken narratives. Bui Huu Hung avoids a sentimental depiction of sisterhood, opting for a layered composition that hints at the intimacy and inherent tensions within familial bonds. Therefore, the title is not a definitive statement but rather an invitation to deconstruct the notion of “family,” prompting us to question what truly binds these women together beyond blood ties.

The diptych format of Sisters in the Family naturally draws a comparison between two distinct yet interconnected spaces. The dominant red serves as both a unifier and a divider. On the left, a cluster of figures is drawn toward a doorway adorned with shimmering gold leaf—a beacon that seems to promise opportunity or a different life. Yet, the heavy presence of red creates a sense of confinement, a visual weight that presses down on them, tempering the hope that the gold might otherwise inspire. Their downward-tilted heads and protective embrace convey a shared burden, a deep sense of responsibility that ties them to their traditions and each other.

In contrast, the lone sister on the right panel, standing near the birdcage, exudes a quiet defiance. With her back turned and gaze directed outward, she challenges the viewer to recognise her individuality—her yearning for something beyond the confines of family. The birdcage, more than just a symbol of freedom, becomes a poignant metaphor for the delicate balance between personal aspirations and societal expectations. Its gold detailing hints at both the allure and the constraints of tradition. Meanwhile, the young boy beside her remains a silent, watchful presence, as if bearing the unspoken weight of responsibility that will one day fall upon the next generation.  In this fragmented portrayal of sisterhood, Bui Huu Hung invites us to reflect on the intricate interplay of love, duty, and the enduring search for individual identity within the framework of family.