The means to develop a contingent of young ethnic artists to meet the requirements of the new situation was the major topic of a conference on Vietnam’s ethnic literature and arts in Hanoi on April 3-4.

Ethnic revolutionary literature was formed alongside the August 1945 Revolution and the resistance war against French colonialists. Art works by well-known artists such as Hoang Van Thu, Nong Quoc Chan, Ban Tai Doan, Cam Bieu, Hoang No, Nong Minh Chau and Luong Quy Nhan helped encourage the revolutionary, combative spirit and patriotism among ethnic groups in the north-western region.

During the past 20 years of the Renewal process, more and more ethnic artists have joined the circle, focusing on expanding performing arts such as singing, dancing, performances of instrumental music, as well as conducting research for folkloric cultures. However, there were no art works recognised in the photographic, stage and cinematographic areas.

The Central Highlands is famous for its epics, Cong Chieng (Gong drum beating) and traditional distinctive rituals, as well as renowned artists such as Y Brom, Rochampheng, Y Moan, Linh Nga Niekdam, Yphon Ksor and Siu Black. Nevertheless, very few young ethnic artists are interested in literature, stage or cinematography.

Krajan Dick, a young composer of K’Ho ethnic group, said that bad command of Vietnamese language and low levels of education are the major obstacles barring young ethnic artists from developing creativity in music, stage arts or cinematography. He pointed to the fact that they are often trained to become teachers, nurses and doctors rather than composers or stage artists.

Writer Y Dieng of Ede ethnic group expressed his concern over the successors of his old generation, as well as disparities among regions and ethnic groups.

In response to this need, several local literature and art associations have opened training courses for young ethnic artists.

Every summer, Dak Lak province’s Literature and Art Association holds classes for young writers. After the class, the writers are sent back to their residential areas and the next summer, they attend a follow-up training programme. The association also selects art works by young artists for publication in local newspapers and magazines and other media agencies. The method has paid off.

Composer Kpa Ylang from Bana ethnic group suggested that arts schools should renew curricula and teaching methodologies, by giving priority to traditional ethnic music rather than classical music.

Painter Cakkhasam from Son La province’s Literature and Art Association proposed that the State provide preferential treatment for ethnic young artists in terms of enrolment, scholarships, job generation, and the development of folkloric arts.