Hi,

I do not know much about your job but I think XQ traditional embroidery art is one thing that you should not miss in Hanoi or Vietnam.
Hanoi address: 88 Pho Hue (Hue str.)

Website: http://www.xq-dalatsuquan.com.vn
You will be surprised.

Huyen

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

Thank you both for your responses. The first link does not work but I looked up information about the company (?) and embroidery art in Vietnam. This is providing me with a lot of information! Thanks again to both, hopefully I can help you in the future.
Vicki

Are you keen on traditional textile only?I have some information relating Vietnamese texttile companies. When will you be in Hanoi?If any pls contact me. I'm local person and now working for a business consulting company so that maybe I can help you. Email: aoiashita_nth@yahoo.com.au

Hope to see you soon!
Mai

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