Young generation transmit passion of arts to influence community

Who or what inspires your passion for Vietnamese ethnic art and culture?

My journey into Vietnamese ethnic art and culture began during a volunteer trip to Hoa Binh in early 2023. Meeting and speaking with residents of ethnic minority villages deeply impacted me. I realised how little I knew about their unique art, cultural identities, and heritages despite living in the same country. It felt as though we were separated by an invisible cultural divide.

A pivotal moment for me was meeting Hanoi sculptor Dinh Cong Dat, whose passion for preserving traditional art and craftsmanship was truly inspiring. Our conversations ignited my curiosity, particularly his sharing of Vietnamese proverbs and idioms that reflect the essence of traditional crafts. For instance, his insights into traditional silk-making reimagined its relevance for both old and modern communities. This encounter motivated me to delve deeper into the world of ethnic art and culture, setting me on a journey of learning and appreciation.

Tran Thai Uyen, a dedicated student at the High School for Gifted Students, Hanoi National University of Education

What motivated you to set up a social project linking ethnic art to community support?

I feel fortunate to have grown up in a loving and supportive family, which has instilled in me a strong sense of gratitude and a desire to give back. I aim to align my passions with meaningful contributions to society.

The intricate process of silk-making, with its rich cultural symbolism, inspired me to connect cultural preservation with social impact. This led me to design a silk scarf project to support children undergoing chemotherapy. Collaborating with a local artist and a traditional craftsman, I created over 100 silk artworks that were gifted to young cancer patients.

These scarves are not just symbols of beauty; they represent resilience and compassion. By blending ethnic embroidery with modern design, I sought to honour traditional craftsmanship while also addressing a contemporary challenge.

Why do you think ethnic minority art and crafts resonate with communities?

Ethnic minority art and traditional crafts carry timeless beauty and vibrant cultural values. Each stitch and pattern reflects generations of stories, traditions, and artistic mastery. When people interact with these handcrafted pieces, they sense the dedication, love, and authenticity behind them. This emotional connection transcends aesthetics, reminding us of our shared humanity and the importance of preserving cultural identities in an ever-changing world.

I have been influenced by my teachers, friends, and the people I’ve met during charity projects who share my commitment to cultural preservation and social impact. To spread this passion, I use storytelling to share the experiences that inspired my journey and the stories behind each cultural artifact I work with. Through my silk scarf project for cancer patients, I hope to demonstrate how traditional crafts can coexist with and enrich modern life.

The project began in the summer of 2023 during a charity trip to Tuyen Quang with the Bright Tomorrow Fund, which supports cancer patients. Seeing the joy on the faces of the recipients was a transformative moment. It showed me how a simple gesture can bring confidence and hope to someone in need.

Along the way, I learned the intricacies of silk-making, strengthened my design skills, and connected with artisans and community leaders. The project also inspired my friends and classmates to join in, turning it into a collective effort and highlighting the power of community and persistence. This experience has shaped my aspiration to pursue a college degree in Public Health, where I hope to contribute to improving the quality of life and mental wellbeing of cancer patients.

What challenges have you faced in encouraging others to share your love for traditional ethnic culture?

One major challenge was overcoming the perception that traditional culture is outdated or irrelevant in today’s fast-paced world. Many of my peers initially struggled to see the connection between preserving ethnic embroidery and addressing modern challenges. To address this, I focused on tangible outcomes, such as using silk scarves as cultural tributes while supporting cancer patients.

Earning trust and support also required patience, clear communication, and delivering consistent results. By achieving small successes, I was able to inspire others to join the effort and see the value of blending traditional culture with meaningful social impact.

What has been the key to your success?

For me, effort is the foundation of success. While good fortune may provide a head start, turning ideas into reality and sustaining it requires hard work and perseverance.

I started with no prior knowledge of silk-making or design, and I had to work tirelessly to learn the basics. Persuading friends to support and join the project was another uphill task. Late nights perfecting designs and overcoming my shyness to seek guidance on traditional art and culture were crucial steps in building the project.

Good fortune acts as a catalyst, but effort ensures long-term, sustainable results. The journey taught me that dedication and persistence are key to creating impactful projects that bring meaningful change to communities.

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