answered about 13 months ago by grubby
Hi vicki,
to answer your question about the art scene in Hanoi first, there's a fair amount going on, and the local artists are often very keen to interact with foreigners, and especially foreign artists. Most of what goes on here is painting and installation art, as far as I can see.
Re: textiles, some of the best work I've seen here is done by the ethnic minorities of the Northern mountains, particulary the Black Hmong and the Red Dao. If you google "Black Hmong Textiles" you'll find some good stuff I think. They do heavily embroidered clothing that is quite mindblowing.
As for apprenticeships, if you want to learn from the Hmong or the Dao, go hang out in the market in Sapa. There are dozens of women there, old and young, and most of them know more than a few things about embroidery.
Hope this helps!
Tom
answered about 13 months ago by opera
Mark of 54 Traditions (ethnic minority shop and collection) would be the person to contact. Women from various minorities make a point of going to his gallery/shop to sell their pieces. His partner is a specialist in ethnic goods. (as was her father) and they may be able to give you the valuable introductions to various ethnic groups.
Natasha of Natasha's Salon on Hang Bong Street is writing the definitive history of the ethnic minority textiles. She's been here since the mid 80s and has some fantastic pieces and old photos. Unfortunatly it will be in Russian and Vietnamese. Know any NGOs who would sponsor the translation and printing in English ? Probably $10,000 for the smallest run.
If you want their e-mails send me an e-mail linda@fpt.vn
