In a heartfelt effort to preserve and share the beauty of Hang Trong folk paintings, Nguyen Thi My Ngoc, a teacher at Quang Trung Preschool in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem District, has creatively introduced these traditional artworks to her young students, fostering their early appreciation for Vietnam’s cultural heritage.
A mission to preserve a fading art form
With over 22 years of dedication to teaching, My Ngoc has always been passionate about her work. Living in the heart of Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem District, she became deeply aware of how the once-renowned Hang Trong folk paintings are fading from public consciousness.
Feeling a personal responsibility to protect and revive this precious art form, she embarked on a journey to share it with her students.
Determined to understand the craft, Ngoc sought out Le Dinh Nghien, the last artisan of Hang Trong paintings in Hanoi. He meticulously taught her every step of the process, from carving wooden printing blocks to printing and coloring the paintings. With newfound confidence, Ngoc devised ways to make this traditional art accessible to preschoolers.
Challenges in adapting tradition for young learners
Ngoc faced immediate obstacles. Traditional Hang Trong printing blocks were made from jackfruit wood, which is hard to source and challenging to carve.
She recalled struggling to replicate the intricate patterns of iconic images like carp chasing the moon, peacocks, and roosters.
“I felt disheartened when the details were too delicate to carve or when the wooden blocks caused colors to smudge, making it difficult for young children to manage,” Ngoc admitted.
Determined to find a solution, she spent sleepless nights searching for a more suitable material. The breakthrough came when she thought of using foam as a substitute.
“Foam is soft, easy to cut and shape, and forgiving when mistakes are made. It’s perfect for young children - it doesn’t smudge when painted, and errors can be wiped clean,” Ngoc explained.
With this innovation, she created foam printing blocks featuring designs like traditional ladies, peacocks, and the iconic carp chasing the moon.
A breakthrough for students and tradition
The foam printing blocks proved to be a game-changer. Ngoc vividly remembers her joy when she introduced them to her students.
“That morning, I arrived early at school, hugged my principal, and shared the good news with my colleagues who had supported me,” she said.
The new method significantly reduced costs and made the activity more accessible for preschoolers. “Through this process, children not only learn how to create Hang Trong paintings but also understand their artistic and cultural significance,” Ngoc added.
While foam lacks the permanence of traditional materials, the paintings her students create carry their own unique charm and provide a meaningful introduction to the art form.
Ngoc shared memories of her students' early struggles, from spilling ink to tearing paper. Yet, with her patient guidance, they gradually mastered the techniques. Today, the children confidently produce beautiful, vibrant artworks.
Recognition for passion and creativity
The principal of Quang Trung Preschool, Luong Thi Thuy Nga, praised Ngoc’s innovative approach: “Even small acts of creativity are deeply valuable. They serve as the foundation for greater ideas and progress. We wholeheartedly support passionate and innovative teachers like Ngoc.”
Ngoc’s dedication has earned her numerous accolades, including first prizes in district and city-level teaching competitions, recognition as an Outstanding Citizen, and the “Hanoi Teacher of Dedication and Creativity” award for her project on introducing Hang Trong paintings to preschoolers.
Through her work, Ngoc hopes to inspire future generations to cherish Vietnam’s traditional art and preserve its cultural identity.
Hoang Thanh