The Binh Ngo Spring 2026 mascot cluster, showcased at Nguyen Tat Thanh square in Quy Nhon city, Binh Dinh province, draws inspiration from the land of martial arts, the Central Highlands, and Chu Dang Ya volcano. Completed on 8/2, the installation quickly became a popular attraction for visitors.

Linh vat ngua dua tao hinh cac nha khoa hoc o Quy Nhon. Photo: Thanh Hai

After images of the mascot cluster were widely shared online, some critics found the figures stiff, disproportionate, and simplistically sculpted, lacking the powerful, graceful essence of horses.

"It's visually appealing but lacks artistic depth and is not commensurate with the central urban space", a tourist commented. Others noted that the vibrant color scheme was too bright, creating a cluttered visual impression overall.

Conversely, many offered positive feedback on the stylized, youthful approach. "It doesn't need to be overly elaborate; the mascots feel friendly and are perfect for family photos during Tet", a tourist from Ho Chi Minh City stated. Some believe the humorous details make the flower street more inviting, adding an entertaining touch for the community.

Linh vat ngua cam iphone tai Quy Nhon. Photo: Thanh Hai

Among the miniature landscapes, a "grumpy-faced" horse mascot holding a smartphone drew particular attention with its plump design and curly blond hair. Many commented that this detail reflects modern life, keeping pace with technological trends. Other mascots are sculpted as "superheroes", symbolizing strength and new year's vigor, or as characters in colorful floral shirts, shorts, holding surfboards and swimming floats, evoking Quy Nhon's beach tourism.

The main horse mascot, over 10 meters tall, features a winding design, wearing a vest and a bow tie, with a humorous expression. Artisans completed the mascot in two months, crafting it from foam and composite to create a highlight for visitors experiencing the flower street.

Do Thi Dieu Hanh, director of the Gia Lai Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, explained that this year's horse mascot combines cultural elements of the Central Highlands and the sea, fitting the context of the locality's first merger.

"The main horse mascot, over 9 meters tall, is sculpted as Thanh Giong's warhorse with solid, powerful muscles, as if rising from the heart of a volcano, symbolizing a spirit of invincibility", Hanh said.

Tao hinh ngua o khu vuc trung tam mang dang ve ngua chien cua Thanh Giong. Photo: Tran Hoa

A representative from the implementing unit stated that the mascot cluster was developed within a short timeframe, aiming to create a spring atmosphere and serve the community. Public feedback will be received for adjustments and future improvements in subsequent decorative seasons.

The controversy surrounding the horse mascot cluster in Quy Nhon highlights the public's growing interest in the quality of public art. It also sets higher demands for aesthetics and identity in festive decorative spaces.

According to the flower street organizing committee, the horse symbolizes luck and prosperity, aligning with the Tet atmosphere. Therefore, the mascots will remain beyond Tet Nguyen Dan for residents and tourists to visit.

Tuan Anh