The story of a couple of artists.

Amidst the vibrant currents of contemporary art, the artist couple Nguyen Ngoc Duan and Ha Thi Ninh Thuan have steadfastly chosen their own path: creating artwork about their homeland and nurturing artistic talent in the younger generation. In the Ngoc Luc Yen region, the art classes they teach have become a creative space, fostering passion and helping students realize their artistic dreams.

Both members of the Fine Arts Branch of the Provincial Union of Literature and Arts, painters Nguyen Ngoc Duan and Ha Thi Ninh Thuan share similar ideals and artistic philosophies. Each pursues a distinct style, but it is precisely this difference that creates a harmonious blend.

While artist Nguyen Ngoc Duan offers the strong, free-spirited perspective of a seasoned man, artist Ha Thi Ninh Thuan touches the viewer's emotions with her subtlety, gentleness, and feminine charm. Painting becomes a "common language," connecting the two artists' souls and helping them become pieces that together weave a tapestry of happiness.

Currently, artist Nguyen Ngoc Duan is an art teacher at Tan Linh Primary School; artist Ha Thi Ninh Thuan works at To Mau Primary and Secondary School in Khanh Hoa commune. Although they teach at two different schools, when they return to the same school, they are always companions in their creative journey: one ponders composition, the other inspires with color. From this mutual understanding, their love of painting has helped them overcome the ups and downs of life, becoming close friends.

Artist Nguyen Ngoc Duan (in white shirt) teaches drawing to students.

Throughout their creative journey, the two artists have won numerous art awards, including: Encouragement Prize, B Prize, and C Prize at the Yen Bai Provincial Literature and Art Awards; and the B Prize in the "Proud of the Traditions of Yen Bai Homeland" Literature and Art Creation Competition (before the merger), in categories such as Acrylic, silk painting, and pastel painting…

Despite creating works with diverse themes and styles, their homeland remains the overarching source of inspiration. It's the verdant mountains and forests of Luc Yen, the crisp sunshine on the rice paddies during harvest season, and the beloved stilt houses – places that hold deep memories and profound love for this land of jade.

The artwork "Summer Afternoon in Tan Linh" by artist Nguyen Ngoc Duan.

Sharing his passion, artist Nguyen Ngoc Duan confided: "Luc Yen is not just a place to live for me, but a whole sky of memories. I paint my homeland with all my pride and gratitude, hoping that viewers will not only see the scenery, but also feel the 'soul' and the warm hospitality of the people of Luc Yen."

For artist Ha Thi Ninh Thuan, her homeland appears gentle and profound in her paintings. While artist Ngoc Duan's paintings lean towards vigor and realism, Ninh Thuan's work reflects her homeland through the lens of a sensitive soul. It could be the image of a hardworking woman in traditional clothing, the peaceful rhythm of life in a stilt house, or simply a delicate wildflower in the early morning mist... Through her brushstrokes, the traditional cultural space appears intimate, peaceful, and full of emotion.

The artwork "Afternoon in Lam Thuong" by artist Ha Thi Ninh Thuan.

Not keeping their passion to themselves, the artist couple were always concerned about passing on their artistic enthusiasm to the younger generation. Drawing on over 20 years of teaching experience, they established a drawing class where they personally teach. For them, each child is a world unto themselves, and art is the key to unlocking their souls.

Teacher Nguyen Ngoc Duan (in white shirt) and teacher Ha Thi Ninh Thuan (in brown shirt) guide students in practicing drawing artworks.

In the classes of artists Nguyen Ngoc Duan and Ha Thi Ninh Thuan, students are encouraged to freely express their creative individuality. The classes not only teach color mixing techniques and composition, but also serve as a place to sow the seeds of passion and nurture artistic emotions.

Sharing her thoughts about the drawing class, Ms. Ha Thi Ninh Thuan said: "This is our passion, a place where we share our experiences and nurture the artistic souls of children."

Le Nha Uyen, a student who is dedicated to the class, shared: "I really enjoy learning to draw with Mr. Duan and Ms. Thuan. They always encourage me to draw with my own feelings. I dream of becoming an artist like them someday."

Le Nha Uyen is engrossed in her drawing lesson.

The creative journey of artist couple Nguyen Ngoc Duan and Ha Thi Ninh Thuan continues, persistently and quietly, just as they have walked the path of art and life together. New works continue to be created, art classes remain open, and their love of art continues to be passed on, contributing to the preservation and dissemination of cultural and aesthetic values ​​in the Ngoc Luc Yen region.

Source: https://baolaocai.vn/chuyen-ve-doi-ban-doi-hoa-si-post892636.html