Making Traditions is a programme that brings together craftspeople, designers and makers from Việt Nam and the UK to connect, learn from one another, and explore new ways of working with traditional crafts.
The programme creates opportunities to experiment with creative and innovative approaches, while encouraging craft communities to share ideas, initiatives and experiences. Through this exchange, it aims to support more sustainable craft practices and help communities respond thoughtfully to the challenges of climate change.
The project aims to:
- Grow and strengthen communities of makers and artisans working with traditional craft skills and natural materials, supporting the development of vibrant creative sectors in both countries.
- Encourage experimentation and the sharing of creative practices that celebrate heritage crafts, indigenous knowledge, local creative economies, and environmentally sustainable approaches.
- Foster connection, collaboration, and mutual learning between Vietnamese and British makers and artisans through exchange and shared experiences.
Working closely with partners in the UK and Việt Nam, the programme will curate and deliver a series of professional development workshops for craft makers, with a particular focus on encouraging greater participation from young women makers and creative entrepreneurs.
The programme will begin with a pilot workshop series in 2026, bringing together experienced and ethically driven craft practitioners and/or creative businesses and a cohort of 15-20 young makers to share their knowledge, skills, and experiences. Through mentorship, exchange, and hands-on learning, the workshops will help nurture the next generation of creative and sustainable craft practitioners.
Making Traditions is part of the British Council’s global programme Creative Growth and is delivered in Việt Nam in collaboration with Skills for Future (S4F).