Bac Ninh man crafts giant horses for Tet Binh Ngo

Bui Van Quan uses tens of tons of concrete to create a trio of horse mascots, up to 6 meters tall, for the public to admire for free during Tet Binh Ngo 2026.

In his 10-hectare workshop in Hop Thinh commune (formerly Hiep Hoa, Bac Giang), 34-year-old Quan and his team are finalizing a collection of mascots for the Year of the Horse 2026. After successful dragon and snake sculptures in previous years, this year's project is larger, featuring three horse statues named: Hanh Phuc, Vui Ve, and Thuong.

Bui Van Quan, 34, from Hop Thinh commune (formerly Hiep Hoa, Bac Giang), stands next to the "Happy Horse" mascot in 1/2026. *Photo: Provided by subject*.

The giant horse trio project began in 6/2025. The most prominent piece, "Happy Horse", stands centrally, nearly 6 meters tall, weighs 10 tons, and features a dominant red hue. The other two statues, "Joyful Horse" (4 meters tall, 6 tons) and "Loving Horse" (5 meters tall, 5 tons), are currently in their sculpting phase.

Unlike many workshops that opt for lighter materials like foam or plaster, Quan remains committed to reinforced concrete. To complete sculptures weighing tens of tons, he first erects a sturdy steel frame, then builds up the concrete mass and meticulously sculpts it by hand.

The most challenging aspect is "breathing life" into each piece. A horse's spirit, Quan explains, is conveyed through its eyes and musculature. He notes the cement mixture must be pliable enough to bond with the mesh, yet soft enough for sculpting before it hardens. Any error in a line or color mix necessitates discarding the entire section.

He explained the colossal size is intended to provide ample space for numerous visitors to take photos simultaneously without overcrowding.

The "Joyful Horse" mascot is in its final stages of completion, 1/2026. *Photo: Provided by subject*.

A new feature this year is the "Loving Horse" statue. Beyond display, this piece is slated for completion before the 20th day of the 12th lunar month for auction. All proceeds will support disadvantaged families in four communes: Hiep Hoa, Hop Thinh, Hoang Van, and Xuan Cam. "I hope the value from this artwork helps struggling families experience a more fulfilling Tet," he stated.

The sculptor, a farmer, never received formal art training. His passion for creation arose from a desire to build a play area for his children and other village youngsters. Self-taught through online resources, Quan progressed from crafting small statues to monumental, multi-ton concrete works. His distinctive "chibi" (stylized) aesthetic, characterized by large eyes and endearing expressions, aims to resonate with children.

Quan's garden, open free year-round, displays nearly 50 works. During the recent Tet Giap Thin and At Ti, his "Sprouting Dragon" and "Happy Snake" mascots gained significant social media attention for their gentle appearance, contrasting with the fierce imagery often associated with these animals. Beyond Tet mascots, the site also features pieces commemorating major national holidays like 30/4 and National Day 2/9, fostering patriotism and national pride.

Numerous visitors have offered to purchase the entire garden for a substantial sum, but he has consistently declined. The Bac Ninh native believes the true value of these concrete creations lies in the community's enjoyment. He self-funds his passion and maintains the free recreational area using income from his agricultural endeavors.