Breathing new life into Bien Hoa pottery

Mr. Le Trung Hieu carefully draws each stroke on Bien Hoa ceramic products.

Although not born into a pottery family, Le Trung Hieu still researched, explored and learned about the pottery profession. Hieu studied fashion design at the Ho Chi Minh City University of Architecture, and after graduating, he worked as a fashion designer. However, he had a special affinity for Southern pottery, especially Bien Hoa pottery. He researched deeply into the history, techniques and philosophy of Bien Hoa pottery, and sought out older artisans to learn their secrets. Hieu paid special attention to traditional stone glaze and wood kiln firing techniques - the elements that make up the soul of Bien Hoa pottery.

The difference and also the strength of Mr. Hieu is the way he skillfully combines traditional values with modern thinking in each ceramic product. He focuses on the theme of flowers and small creatures, but he expresses them in a stylized and estimated way, depicting the beauty of nature in a fresh and delicate way. His works also contain the hope of good luck according to Eastern philosophy.

Mr. Hieu's journey to the pottery profession was not without its challenges. He experienced "bloody lessons" from chipped clay, cracked pottery, unsatisfactory glaze color, or financial pressure. However, with patience, passion, and self-study ability, he gradually overcame them. Mr. Hieu's perseverance was rewarded when his works were selected to participate in the "Duyen Ky Ngo" exhibition at the Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Association from December 23 to 29, 2024. This is not only a recognition of personal talent, but also a positive sign for the revival of Bien Hoa pottery.

Mr. Le Trung Hieu does not stop at making pottery. He has bigger dreams: creating a community of young people who love Bien Hoa pottery, organizing 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 spread ceramics closer to young people, Mr. Hieu makes the most of social media platforms such as Instagram and Threads for promotion. He turns seemingly dry ceramic "footage" into engaging stories, attracting young people and the art-loving community. Videos of ceramic stenciling, decoration or sparkling product images are not only a way of promotion, but also a way for Mr. Hieu to inspire the value of Bien Hoa ceramics in a close and modern way.

Quang Dinh

Source: https://baodongnai.com.vn/van-hoa/202508/thoi-lan-gio-moi-cho-gom-bien-hoa-80d2111/