The Lecht Collection

The Lecht Collection unveils a deeply personal encounter with Vietnamese contemporary art during a time of profound change. Suzanne Lecht, arriving as Vietnam opened its doors, found herself amidst an art scene still finding its voice, relatively untouched by outside influence. This unique position allowed her to gather works that reflect the genuine feelings and stories of Vietnamese artists exploring their world, their inner selves, and a society in flux.

Lecht’s approach to collecting was less about calculated acquisition and more about an intuitive connection. She gravitated towards pieces that resonated with her heart, viewing the collection as “a reflection of the eyes of one person”—a personal album of encounters and bonds formed with the artists themselves. This passion-driven method, while perhaps unconventional, has resulted in a collection that holds immense cultural and historical significance.

The collection also stands as a precious time capsule, capturing a specific chapter in Vietnam’s art history. At a time when many important contemporary works were being acquired by overseas collectors, Lecht’s dedication ensured that a vital portion remained in Vietnam, enriching the nation’s artistic heritage for generations to come. 

Beyond its artistic merit, the collection carries the added perspective of Lecht’s identity as an American.  Coming from a country with a complex past tied to Vietnam, her collection fosters a unique cross-cultural dialogue. Ultimately, within the Vietnamese art ecosystem, The Lecht Collection stands as a testament to Suzanne Lecht’s personal journey, documenting artistic expression at a pivotal juncture in the nation’s history, and celebrating the enduring power of art to foster connection and understanding.

Suzanne Lecht: A Life
Dedicated to Vietnamese Art

Suzanne Lecht is the founder and Creative Director of Art Vietnam Gallery. She is recognized as one of the “Hanoi Sisters,” a group of international collectors and scholars who have developed a profound affection for Vietnamese art and artists. Since her first arrival in Vietnam in 1994, Suzanne Lecht has cultivated strong relationships with the country’s early contemporary artists—most notably the group known as the “Gang of Five”, comprising Đặng Xuân Hòa, Hà Trí Hiếu, Phạm Quang Vinh, Trần Lương, and Hồng Việt Dũng. Through Art Vietnam Gallery, she has represented over 50 Vietnamese artists in exhibitions both in Vietnam and internationally.