Nan International Symposium on Crafts and Folk Art 2025

The gentle strains of local music drift through the air, accompanying the graceful movements of young performers dressed in traditional hand-woven fabrics adorned with Iu Mien-inspired silver jewelry. These textiles reflect the intricate patterns and exquisite techniques of Nan's master artisans. Against a backdrop screen displaying the "Nan Creative City" emblem, this performance serves as an invitation for all guests at the Nan International Symposium on Crafts and Folk Art 2025 to connect, fostering cooperation within the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN). It allows them to feel the soul of local wisdom being revitalized and passed down through generations.

Not far from the stage lies the Creative Works Exhibition, showcasing collaborative pieces resulting from the knowledge exchange between artists and craftspeople from Hoi An, Vietnam, and local Nan artisans. This exhibition highlights the potential of crafts to bridge a small local world with the larger global community. Nan, a small province nestled in the embrace of mountains, is where the ancient wisdom of its local craftspeople is being integrated into global partnerships for sustainable development.

The driving force began with the realization that the accumulated heritage of wisdom in crafts and folk art is the single most vital "capital" for driving the local economy. The challenge was how to prevent this cultural value from being confined to mere exhibition rooms or museums. This led to the concept of using the International Symposium as a "bridge" connecting local artisans with global networks like the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN). This effort is supported by the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA), the Nan Provincial Office, the Nan Provincial Cultural Office, the Nan Provincial Administrative Organization (PAO), and the Nan Community College.

Implementation began with gathering and showcasing remarkable works, particularly through partnerships between local and international craftspeople, such as those from Hoi An, Vietnam. This collaboration aims to exchange techniques and create new works that blend modernity with the original cultural roots of Nan. This process is not focused solely on the final product but represents a critical learning lesson: that embracing new perspectives is the key to keeping traditional wisdom vibrant, and utilizing "innovation" is the tool that helps traditional crafts overcome limitations in production and marketing.

This commitment is underscored by the clear vision of key local figures who serve as the main coordinators for Nan's application to become a Creative City. Dr. Pimonpan Skidrum, Director of the Community College, stated firmly: "We have included the term 'Creative City' in Nan's provincial development plan... This is the essential heart of the matter." This statement reflects that this development is not just a one-off event, but a long-term groundwork officially embedded in the provincial strategy. It also reflects the collaboration among every sector and agency in the province, confirming that Nan is ready to become a member of the Creative Cities Network.

The Nan International Symposium on Crafts and Folk Art 2025 is therefore more than a discussion forum; it is a declaration that "Heritage Wisdom" is a genuine economic powerhouse. Elevating Nan to become a UNESCO Creative City will be a crucial step in expanding international cooperation, empowering artisans with the space and opportunities for sustainable growth on a global scale. Ultimately, the value of these crafts is not just the tangible beauty, but the story of cultural sustainability woven by the hands and hearts of everyone in Nan Province.