Distinguished Artisan Nguyen Dang Hoang (far right) with a foreign family experiencing kite-making
Enchanted by “Puppets in the sky”
What is it about this art form, often likened to “puppetry in the sky”, that fascinates Western visitors? Anyone who steps into Hoang’s space will likely find the answer for themselves. The room is filled with kites that embody Hue’s traditional artistry, along with tools and materials for crafting. Surrounding them are kites that have accompanied Hoang across the globe, not only to perform but also to promote the cultural values of Hue to international friends.
It is precisely this charm that has enthralled foreign customers, and when they come to Vietnam, to Hue, many seek out Hoang’s home in hopes of gaining deeper insight into this unique pastime. “At first, I only guided a few acquaintances from France who had seen my performances and wanted to learn more. But then more and more people reached out asking to experience it themselves”, Hoang recalled. Out of respect for their enthusiasm, he welcomes every group with wholehearted guidance.
Most of Hoang’s guests are from Europe - especially France, Italy, Germany, and Belgium. They often come as families, sometimes even in tour groups of tens. Some had tried kite experiences in other countries, but upon encountering Hue kites, they admitted that not only are they exquisitely crafted, but when soaring in the wind they have a unique soul, unlike any others.
Thomas, a visitor from Germany, like many others from Europe, was so captivated that he arranged a family trip to Vietnam and set a plan to meet “Master” Hoang. He had researched the artisan’s biography and artistic portfolio, including his representation of Vietnam at international kite-making and performance events.
“They all truly fascinated me. So, I wanted to come to Vietnam with the simple wish of watching Hoang make a kite with my own eyes and learning from him how to create one,” Thomas shared sincerely. While he and his wife were guided through making a traditional kite, their two children joyfully crafted smaller kites of their own.
Spreading Hue’s culture
All the theoretical processes of making a kite were patiently explained to guests by artisan Hoang. Even steps like finding lo o - a type of bamboo used to form the kite’s frame, which were not part of the guided session, were still carefully and meticulously described by the artisan. Next, the steps of trimming the lo o for the frame, creating decorative patterns, and gluing fabric were also demonstrated by Hoang, much to the amazement and excitement of the guests.
“Every detail must be calculated so that the kite, whether heavy or light, can still glide gracefully when it catches the wind. Beyond aesthetics, it also needs to meet technical requirements, balance and softness,” Hoang explained. For many, the most challenging task was shaving bamboo strips smoothly with a knife. After initial awkwardness, guests gradually became more adept. On the other hand, the painting and assembly stages proved more intuitive, with some even showing proficient skill, as Hoang remarked.
“Watching a kite fly in the sky seems simple, but creating it is truly a hardship. Today I learned so many things, and my favourite part was painting the decorations on the kite myself and then flying it”, Thomas said, glancing at his wife while giving a thumbs-up. Nearby, their children’s small, neatly crafted kites were also completed, decorated with motifs inspired by Dong Ho paintings.
Artisan Nguyen Dang Hoang shared that there is no pre-made curriculum; instead, guests may request to make various types of kites, such as bird kites, butterfly kites, peacock kites, phoenix kites, dragon kites… Among them, the bird kite is most often chosen, as it fits within an afternoon session and can still be flown in time. “The bird kite is moderately sized and very easy to disassemble and reassemble, making it convenient for my customers to pack and take it home”, Hoang said. In addition, many guests purchase extra materials to bring back for their children and grandchildren to experience, and if they encounter difficulties, they can contact him online for his guidance.
Hoang’s kite-making experiences for international visitors take place year-round, with the busiest season between June and August. Besides tour groups booking through travel agencies, there are also individual guests. “Sometimes I’m busy, but if a tourist, through a guide, expresses the wish to try, I still try to make time. They were moved, but to me, it’s not just about their passion, but also about their love for Hue’s culture and art. Sharing this beauty is my way of taking Hue further,” the artisan confided.
And so, the kites of Hue, crafted by the hands of “Hoang Kite” are now carried on through these experiential workshops. These kites, in turn, travel far and wide with international visitors, spreading the joy of kite flying and the beauty of Hue’s culture, one that has endured for hundreds of years.
Story and photo: Nhat Minh