In One - Dinh, Halong Bay, Vietnam, part of Pierre Sernet’s One series, a traditional Japanese tea ceremony unfolds within a minimalist cube, set against the stunning limestone karsts and tranquil waters of Halong Bay. The cube structure provides a conceptual frame that contrasts with the vast, natural landscape, highlighting the interaction between cultural ritual and the timeless beauty of Vietnam’s scenery. The presence of a local participant wearing a traditional Vietnamese conical hat adds a sense of rootedness, symbolizing the blending of Japanese and Vietnamese traditions within a shared contemplative space.

The stark simplicity of the cube amidst the grandeur of Halong Bay creates a dialogue between the structured formality of the tea ceremony and the organic majesty of nature. Sernet’s arrangement emphasizes that cultural practices can find a home in any environment, reinforcing the universal need for peace, reflection, and connection. The seated figures, engaged in ritualistic calm, offer a serene counterpoint to the rugged cliffs and water, capturing a sense of harmony between humanity and the natural world.

Through One - Dinh, Halong Bay, Vietnam, Sernet invites viewers to consider how distinct cultural practices can coalesce into a singular experience of shared humanity. The cube becomes a conceptual “window” into unity, urging audiences to recognize the interconnectedness of diverse traditions. The piece highlights the possibility of harmony between cultures and reminds us that, no matter the setting, the essential values of respect, presence, and connection transcend geographical and cultural boundaries.