OUR
Journey
Ban Cang and Pa Co Villages, Vietnam
Our remarkable journey embarked from a place of deep curiosity. Commencing from an unconventional purpose: to deliver baby chickens to a remote indigenous tribe. With intentions rooted in charity, we sought to assist an impoverished community. However, the experiences that awaited us transformed our understanding.
As we immersed ourselves in the tribe, we seamlessly became part of their daily life. Shoulder to shoulder with villagers, we participated in planting rice, cultivating both crops and connections for the upcoming season. As we explored the village, we were graciously invited into modest homes, marvels of craftsmanship akin to the finest artistry. These dwellings were masterpieces of meticulous precision, patience, and skill. Our eyes drank in every detail, while Lan's relentless curiosity led her to glean insights from conversations with the indigenous artisans.
Sitting cross-legged in a modest hut, our senses absorbed the handwoven textures of the floor. Our discussions revolved around the handcrafted treasures adorning the walls – baskets, crossbows, tools – each item woven with history and artistry. The weight of these exchanges struck us deeply; our humble offering of baby chickens paled in comparison to the wealth of experiences shared with this remarkable community. This remote village stood as a living testament to the enduring heritage of a tribal legacy, preserved through generations.
Days later, as we journeyed back on foot, we not only glimpsed the remnants of indigenous culture but also witnessed the heartrending decline of these traditions.
The gradual fading of skills and knowledge and the growing divide between generations and their forebears ignited a powerful call within us to make a lasting impact.
In response to these challenges, we embraced the cause of upcycling, a transformative endeavour that revitalized time-honoured techniques while empowering the artisans who held the heart of these crafts.
On the outskirts of Hoi An's ancient town, a historic French building became a sanctuary of revival and renewal. Here, traditional handicrafts found a haven, and their legacy was celebrated. Elaborate embroidered tapestries, finely woven fabrics, intricately carved woodwork, and exquisitely moulded pottery converged to recount the stories of bygone eras.
Our unwavering commitment to upcycling and preserving these heritage crafts enriched the artisans’ lives and paved the way for sustainable livelihoods. The beauty of these artefacts was honoured with humility, recognizing their role as carriers of tradition and legacy.
From our initial curiosity, a journey of profound significance unfolded. With dedication as our compass, we embraced the responsibility of safeguarding these timeless crafts and inspiring a future that revered heritage. Through our efforts, we showcased that tradition could be rekindled amidst change, and collaborative spirit could bridge gaps, breathing life into the artistry that would endure through time.
Photos of Peter Cleveland https://www.facebook.com/peter.cleveland.353
Nam Cang, Ta Phin, Hoa Tien Villages, Vietnam.