Breathing new life into Bien Hoa pottery

(ĐN) - Le Trung Hieu, (24, from Thuan An ward, Ho Chi Minh City), a Gen Z young man is quietly breathing a modern spirit into the renowned heritage of Bien Hoa pottery. Amidst the fast-paced current of the digital age, where younger generations are often drawn to technology and virtual spaces, Hieu has chosen to get attached to clay, transforming a personal passion into a journey to preserve and develop the traditional pottery craft.

Le Trung Hieu carefully draws each stroke on Bien Hoa pottery products

Although Hieu did not come from a family of potters, he still explores, researches, and learns about the pottery craft. Trained in fashion design at the University of Architecture in Ho Chi Minh City, after graduating from the University, he initially worked in the fashion industry. Yet fate led him down another path. He was drawn to Southern pottery, especially Bien Hoa pottery. He immersed himself in research, studying the Bien Hoa craft’s history, techniques, and philosophy. He also sought out elderly artisans to learn their secrets. He placed particular emphasis on traditional stone glaze and wood-fired kiln techniques - the elements that make up the soul of Bien Hoa pottery.

What sets Hieu apart and also defines his strength is the ability to skillfully weave traditional value with modern thinking. Although focusing on the theme of flowers and small creatures, he expresses them through stylized lines and delicate abstraction, depicting the beauty of nature in a fresh and delicate way. His works also embody the hope for good luck according to Eastern philosophy.

Hieu's road to becoming a potter has been anything but smooth. He has endured countless failures such as cracked clay, shattered pots, glazes that fell flat, and the constant strain of financial challenges. But resilience, passion, and self-taught discipline kept him going. His persistence bore fruit when his works were selected for “Duyen Ky Ngo” exhibition at the Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Association, from December 23 to 29, 2024. It was not just personal recognition but also a promising signal for the revival of Bien Hoa pottery.

Le Trung Hieu ambitions extend beyond making pottery. Hieu dreams of building a community of young people passionate about Bien Hoa pottery, hosting experiential workshops, and even bringing the quintessence of Bien Hoa pottery to the international market. His story is a source of inspiration for those who want to return to their roots and use their youth to create sustainable values for Vietnamese culture.

To bring pottery closer to young people, Hieu has taken full advantage of social media platforms such as Instagram and Threads for promotion. He turns what might seem like dry footage of pottery making into captivating stories, attracting young people and the art-loving community. Videos of hands shaping clay, brushes tracing patterns or stunning product images are not only promotional tools but also as a way for Hieu to inspire others about the value of Bien Hoa pottery, in a relatable and modern way.

By: Quang Dinh

Translated by: Thuy Trang - Thu Ha