• Time: October 3, 2025 | 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM (local time)
• Place: Revson Plaza, Columbia University

Global Vietnam Studies at the Weatherhead East Asian Institute and Vietmode proudly present The Journey Connecting Heritage, a special program marking 30 years of U.S.–Vietnam reconciliation and celebrating the richness of Vietnamese culture through arts, crafts, and the iconic national dress, the áo dài.

Program Highlights

• Conversation with Minh Hanh and Artisans
   Gain insights from Vietnam’s leading fashion designer Minh Hanh and master artisans on how the áo dài and traditional crafts embody national pride and foster global cultural exchange.
   
• The Áo Dài Showcase
   Witness a live fashion performance featuring Minh Hanh’s contemporary áo dài creations. Her designs reimagine Vietnam’s national dress while drawing inspiration from traditional craftsmanship and celebrated Vietnamese painters.

• Art & Craft Exhibits
   Explore silk weaving, embroidery, rattan work, and painting presented by artisans dedicated to preserving and revitalizing Vietnam’s cultural heritage.

   

About Designer Minh Hanh

Minh Hanh is one of Vietnam’s most celebrated fashion designers and a pioneer in integrating traditional crafts into modern design. Recognized for her innovative approach that blends ethnic fabrics, motifs, and embroidery with contemporary aesthetics, she has elevated the áo dài into a global symbol of artistry and cultural pride.

Her practice often combines fashion with education, engaging artisans, students, and scholars in workshops that preserve and reimagine Vietnam’s textile traditions. Minh Hanh’s contributions have earned her widespread recognition, including:

• Special Award, Asia Collection (Makuhari, Japan, 1997)
• Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres (France, 2006)
• Fukuoka Prize for Arts and Culture (Japan, 2015)
• ASEAN Selection Award – Top 10 ASEAN Artisans (Thailand, 2016)