VietNamNet Bridge – Born into a family with a long tradition in sewing in the Mekong Delta province of Ben Tre, Vo Thanh Vien found his true passion for bamboo handicraft after seeing banisters of bamboo bridges become shiny and beautiful after time. With meticulousness, patience, profound love and adroitness, Vien has turned rough bamboo into unique and elegant handmade products.

He started with replicas of architectural works such as One-Pillar Pagoda, Ngo Mon Gate in Hue Imperial Citadel, Khue Van Cac Temple in Hanoi, traditional stilt houses of the highlands or boats of the fishermen in the delta. For many years, Vien attended national craft fine arts exhibitions to promote his products as well as to bolster the advantages of bamboo. His products are also very diverse from key rings, pen holders, flower vases as well as decorators of replicas of typical architecture works or vehicles, tea sets and homes.

His proudest moment was at the first Vietnam-Asean craft village fair in 2005 when his products were recognized as Vietnamese traditional craft products.

Currently he is making a mosaic about the landscape of Vietnam. With over 30 years of experience, Vien promises to give to the national craft world a unique painting.

His products now are also on display at the Phu My Hung handicraft and food market in weekend at Crescent Mall in HCMC’s District 7.

Enthusiasts can witness his talent at his home at 831/42 Cay Tao Alley, Binh Khanh Ward, Long Xuyen City, An Giang Province, tel: 0903 129 412.

VietNamNet/SGT