[TheStoriesOfTop7] Grasp - Minh Tran Duc / Vietnam - IAPLC 2023

 It may be reminiscent of the banyan trees that grow in the jungles of Southeast Asia. In order not to erase the impression of the driftwood, the aquatic plants are skillfully planted with a focus on epiphytic species. The space under the driftwood was effective, and the fish were well positioned.

IAPLC 2023 World Ranking Announcement - World Ranking 0007 - Bronze Prize

Grasp 

Author: Minh Tran Duc / Vietnam

Aquarium Size/W1,200×D600×H450 (mm)

Aquatic Plants

Anubias barteri var. nana 'Petite'

Fissidens splachnobryoides

Micranthemum sp.

Hemianthus callitrichoides 'Cuba'

Microsurum pteropus 'Narrow Leaf'

Microsorum pteropus'Trident'

Hygrophila pinnatifida

Rotala rotundifolia 'Green'

Rotala rotundifolia 'Hra'

Helanthium tenellum 'Red'.

Bucephalandra sp.

Taxiphyllum sp. 'Flame Moss'

Bolbitis heudelotii

Isopterygium sp.

Hydrocotyle sibthorpioides 

Fish & Invertebrates 

updating

AWARDS

World Ranking 0007 Bronze Prize IAPLC 2023

The seventh place in the world ranking (Bronze Prize) was a work called "Grasp" by Mr. Minh Tran Duc from Vietnam, which scored total 1,020 points. This work was selected individually as one of the top 10 works by 3 out of 10 judges. Mr. Shogo Yamaguchi (Japan) and Mr. Adam Paszczela (Poland) selected it as his Best Aquarium.

Comments from Mr. Shogo Yamaguchi (Japan)

This is a boldly composed work, but it has a charm all its own. The aquatic plants that have taken root on the driftwood grow naturally, indicating that they were cultivated in this aquarium over time. Both shade-loving and sun-loving aquatic plants are used, and they are in very good condition, showing a high level of cultivation technique. Although the composition is bold, there are subtle techniques used everywhere to create a sense of perspective, and when you look at the entire picture, you can see that the composition is very well thought out. What particularly caught my attention were the aquatic plants in the foreground. The small, rounded aquatic plants seem to create an artificial rhythm in the aquascape full of nature. If this is a representation of a grouping of small groups of plants in a natural setting, it could be an attempt to create a sense of naturalness, but in any case, the contrast between the bold background and the plants is magnificent. The creator's outstanding expressive ability and deep insight into nature seem to bring brilliance to the entire work. I heartily praise the work, "Grasp"

Comments from Mr. Adam Paszczela (Poland)

This work is a hauntingly beautiful, peaceful and lush aquascape for me. As a member of the jury and as a selector, I would like to explain my interpretation of this work as the best aquarium. It is a view similar to the unrealistic landscapes, instead I have known in regions such as, South America and Middle East Africa. But I also had the strong impression that I was transported back in time to the Amazon region of South America. This is probably because of the plants that are growing on the driftwood, the top light shining through, and the use of an amazing amount of green vegetation. It is a very dynamic composition, but at the same time it brings a sense of security and peace. The slight exposure of white sand in the foreground, combined with the white light in the background, creates an open landscape and enhances the sense of depth in this work. Although the composition is not in the typical Nature Aquarium style, this work allows the viewer to feel the closeness of nature. The work seems to invite the viewer into the world of natural habitats and rainforests, but it also seems to be surrounded by the nature that prevailed in the land during the Jurassic period. And the title "Grasp," which indicates the way this prehistoric plant clings to the tree, clearly conveys to the viewer what the creator wanted to pres-ent. I thought the atmosphere was wonderful, very dynamic and covered with greenery. I also found the work to be a wonderful throwback to the "Microsorum era" in the past, and I feel this message is positive. Congratulations to the creator!

Comments

That day - IMPOSSIBLE was the feeling of that day when I received the Bronze Prize of IAPLC 2023. I was experiencing a multitude of emotions inside me, and now, when I have received so many praises and acclamation from friends, family, colleagues and new friends, I sat alone and wondered: Did I achieve the Bronze Prize this year? Really? That is when I went back to the aplc website to check and make sure I was receiving the Bronze Prize 2023. The feeling of victory and surpassing the goal I set in a spectacular way are something I am proud of. Specifically this year, in addition to the judges' favor, my entry was recognized by Mr. Adam Paszczela (Poland) and Mr. Shogo Yamaguchi (Japan) for choosing my work as the best aquarium. My work accepted and loved by everyone is a source of great satisfaction. Last but not least, I am certain that | have accomplished it this year, and I am extremely proud and happy about it. I would like to give my gratitude and appreciation to the APLC Steering Committee and the judges for recognizing my work. My best wishes to all of the candidates of next year, best of luck and great results!