Ms. Cam Suong writes calligraphy on conical hats.
Amidst the picturesque Ninh Kieu wharf, visitors are impressed by the large-scale artwork titled "The Soul of the Nation - The Conical Hat of the Homeland." This work, recently recognized as a record by the Vietnam Record Organization at the end of April, was created and executed by calligrapher Dao Thi Cam Suong, with the support and sponsorship of An Hung Coffee Joint Stock Company. Besides its massive size, the artwork stands out for its harmonious combination of a map of Vietnam displaying the names of provinces, cities, and archipelagos in calligraphy, and a giant model of a conical hat assembled from 103 hats, each inscribed with the name of a ward or commune of Can Tho City.
Specifically, the map of Vietnam measures 9.6m x 6m, alongside a model of a conical hat measuring 6.5m in height and 4m in diameter. The harmonious blend of the traditional conical hat and calligraphy has contributed to creating a unique and striking work of art in the Ninh Kieu wharf area. Notably, next to the map are verses imbued with a strong sense of national pride. Ms. Nguyen Thi Nguyet Hang, a tourist from Dong Nai , shared: “This artwork is very unique, showcasing the beauty of our homeland and demonstrating the meticulous effort of its creator.”
This is not the first time artisan Cam Suong has set a record. In October 2022, also combining conical hats and calligraphy, she created the "Largest conical hat model in Vietnam, assembled from 540 traditional conical hats combined with calligraphy." The artwork is 6.8m high and 7.8m in diameter, constructed from 14 circular frames and 540 calligraphic conical hats, displaying the names of provinces and cities nationwide, most notably the words "Can Tho."
Tourists take photos next to the artwork "The Soul of the Nation - The Conical Hat of the Homeland".
Ms. Cam Suong said that, with her love for Can Tho, she always wanted to contribute to promoting the beauty of her hometown. Having a talent for calligraphy and a passion for traditional conical hats, she came up with the idea of combining these two elements to create works of art that are rich in cultural identity. Nearly 20 years dedicated to calligraphy, from the early days of self-learning and meticulously practicing each stroke, to becoming a familiar calligrapher at festivals and cultural events, she has captivated viewers not only with her technique but also with her enduring love and passion.
Writing calligraphy on paper is difficult enough, but writing on a conical hat with its curved, rough, and uneven surface demands even greater precision and skill. However, each of Ms. Cam Suong's works exudes its own unique artistic value, not simply as projects to "set records," but also as pieces imbued with spirit, conveying stories and having a profound impact. Many tourists stop for a long time before the calligraphic hats or the gracefully written maps of Vietnam to take photos and videos. Ms. Cam Suong confided: "That makes me very happy, because I'm contributing a small part to promoting my hometown of Can Tho."
From simple conical hats to exquisite calligraphy, the journey of artisan Dao Thi Cam Suong is a vivid testament to the efforts to preserve and spread cultural identity in contemporary life.
Text and photos: DANG HUYNH
Source: https://baocantho.com.vn/thu-phap-non-la-va-tinh-yeu-que-huong-a203821.html
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