Discovering the Art of Non La Painting

As a digital nomad, I often find myself seeking out unique cultural experiences that allow me to connect with the local traditions of the places I visit. During my recent travels through Vietnam, I stumbled upon the Non La Painting Workshop in Bến Thành. Intrigued by the idea of painting a traditional Vietnamese conical hat, or Non La, I decided to spend an afternoon at the B/S Art Studio.

Upon arrival, I was greeted by the warm and welcoming staff who introduced me to the history of Dong Ho paintings. This innovative style combines traditional Vietnamese folk art with contemporary Doodle Art, creating a unique and vibrant aesthetic. As it was the Year of the Cat in the Vietnamese Lunar calendar, I chose to paint a chunky cat on my hat, complete with exaggerated features like a round belly, small paws, and pointy ears. The design was surrounded by stylized banana leaves, fish, bubbles, and musical notes, each element adding a layer of meaning to the artwork.

The Creative Process

The workshop began with a practice session on paper, where I learned to sketch the basic shape of a cat. This step was crucial in building my confidence before moving on to the actual hat. Once I felt comfortable with my design, I transferred the line drawing onto the Non La. The next step involved outlining the design with 3D golden paint, which gave the artwork a unique embroidered look.

Filling in the design with acrylic colors was both challenging and rewarding. It required at least three coats to achieve the desired vibrancy and depth. As someone who enjoys the freedom to explore new creative outlets, I found this process to be incredibly fulfilling. The workshop provided all the necessary materials, including acrylic pens, ensuring that even beginners like myself could create something beautiful.

A Soothing Experience

While waiting for the paint to dry, I was treated to a delightful musical performance featuring live piano and flute. The soothing melodies, combined with a warm cup of oolong tea and traditional Vietnamese cookies, created a serene atmosphere that allowed me to fully immerse myself in the experience. It was a perfect blend of creativity and relaxation, offering a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of travel.

As I departed the studio with my personalized painted Non La, I felt a deep sense of accomplishment and connection to Vietnamese culture. This workshop was not only a creative outlet but also a meaningful way to engage with the rich artistic traditions of Vietnam. For fellow budget travelers seeking unique cultural experiences, I highly recommend the Non La Painting Workshop as a must-try activity during your visit to Bến Thành.