Folk art receives heritage listing

Dong Ho folk painting.— File photo

HA NOI (VNS)– The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism listed Dong Ho folk paintings as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Originating from Song Ho Commune, Thuan Thanh District in the northern province of Bac Ninh, the woodcut paintings use diep paper and colours derived from nature to depict a wide range of themes, from good-luck wishes and historical figures to everyday activities and folk tales. In the past, Dong Ho paintings were an essential decoration during Tet.

The art, which dates back to the 11th century during the reign of the Ly dynasty, has long been considered a symbol of the traditional culture of Viet Nam.

Today, most local people have taken up more profitable jobs. The number of artisans who still pursue the traditional art can be counted on the fingers of one hand.

Nguyen Dang Che and Nguyen Huu Sam, two of those painters, have opened their workshops to tourists.

According to Nguyen Van Phong, director of Bac Ninh Province’s culture department, the recognition will help preserve the fading art. – VNS