Mai Thi Thu Van was born in 1964 and is a professor at the Hanoi Fine Arts University. Her knowledge of the arts expands to ceramics and painting.  She is recognized internationally for her sculpture work, uses abstract forms expressed through stone to reflect metal, wood, fire, water and earth in nature.   In the past, she has participated in international sculpture symposia as well as done group and solo exhibitions in Canada, Thailand, Vietnam, and Korea.  Her awards include a Silver Medal at the National Fine Arts Exhibitions 2000, Second Prize at the National Sculpture Exhibition 2003, and various other accolades.