Hmong Culture Exhibition: “Connecting the Lifeline between the Hmong, the Earth, and the Soul”
Growing up in the United States but carrying Hmong memories and roots, a group of students from the University of Wisconsin – Madison returned to Vietnam to seek a connection with their heritage. During their internship with CRAFT LINK—a social enterprise supporting ethnic minority groups—they visited and experienced life in three Hmong communities in Pà Cò (Hòa Bình), Huồi Tụ (Nghệ An), and Lùng Tám (Hà Giang). From these experiences, the collection “Connecting the Lifeline between the Hmong, the Earth, and the Soul” was born as a way of recounting the identity discovery journey of the Hmong generation born and raised in the United States.
“Connecting the Lifeline between the Hmong, the Earth, and the Soul” exhibition space at Craftlink Hanoi. Source: Organizers
The artworks utilize familiar symbols in Hmong culture: Butterflies, flowers, and spiral motifs. The image of the butterfly evokes the spiritual connection between descendants and ancestors in folk belief. The flowers represent the development and transformation of identity—as the young generation simultaneously preserves tradition and embraces new influences. The spiral motif, also known as the snail shell pattern, symbolizes strength, solidarity, and family affection, and is used by the group as a connection point between the Hmong community in Vietnam and the overseas community.
The students shared: “We want to connect the past with the present, and link the Hmong community in the US with the Hmong community in Vietnam through familiar cultural symbols.”
More than just an exhibition, the event opened up a space for dialogue on how the young Hmong generation approaches, preserves, and renews their cultural heritage in a global context.
Event Information:
Time: 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM, Friday, July 11, 2025
Location: CRAFT LINK – 51 Văn Miếu, Đống Đa, Hanoi
Admission: Free.