Hanoi, Nov. 6 -- Artisan-led classes are keeping folk crafts alive and feeding Hanoi's cultural industry ambitions, but the model works best when training is tied to income and market demand.

Talent pipeline starts with artisans

In Duong Lam ancient village, Meritorious Artisan Nguyen Tan Phat has spent years teaching lacquerware, a craft where skilled hands are only part of the job. Products embed generations of knowledge, technique and aesthetic judgment. Students must learn materials and master every step, from building the base and treating the surface to lacquering, polishing and finishing.

"Artisans should not be merely the last ones holding a technique", Phat said. "They need to be pathfinders so younger generations can keep cre...