Artists need to be ready to adapt to new era

In a recent discussion with Khanh Hoa Newspaper, musician Do Hong Quan, chairman of the Vietnam Union of Literary and the Arts Associations and vice-chairman of the Central Committee of Vietnam Fatherland Front, shared his insights on the role of literature and the arts in the new era.

-    Over the past period, Vietnam’s literature and the arts have seen the rise of many young artists, who have been creative and produced works that carry the colors of traditional and modern cultural characteristics. Their works have been well received by the public. Could you please share your thought on this?

Musician Do Hong Quan

-    Today, many young people have a fondness for and are highly attuned to global trends and information, which has contributed to their creation. Their edge lies in their rapid adaptability and relentless pursuit of new things. Their grasp of technology and digital-age literary and artistic production methods helps them easily spread their products. They have remained focus on subjects of nation, current life and pride in nation's development. 

Literature and the arts, along with other forms of culture, must retain the distinctive national identities, which plays an important role in making readers fully appreciate the beauty and value of Vietnam’s literature and the arts. Therefore, current artists should research the traditional cultural heritages and learn from their seniors to enrich their knowledge. Artists also need to engage deeply with lived experiences so that their works can present the spirit of life and evoke emotions rather than following to ephemeral trends. Recently, many artists have sang and played folk music with contemporary styles. This requires each artist to possess a comprehensive understanding of these folk songs to feel the songs’ beauty and intrinsic value, helping them to avoid superficiality.

- Currently, the entire country in general and Vietnamese artists in particular are facing new opportunities and favorable circumstances. So, from your point of view, what should artists in Khanh Hoa do to not miss this chance?

- Amidst the 4th Industrial Revolution, the national digital transformation has become an inevitable trend, strongly impacting the field of the arts and literature. Each artist and writer cannot stand aside and need proactively adapt to keep pace with the changes. The authorities and government always pay special attention to cultural sector in general the arts and literature in particular, especially during the current period of national renovation and increasingly deep international integration. The artists and writers nationwide are always encouraged to be creative in their work and enjoy artistic freedom with special policies aligned with general trend of socio-economic conditions.

- What role does the Khanh Hoa Provincial Association of Literature and the Arts play in supporting its members to promote their creativity?

- Khanh Hoa Provincial Association of Literature and the Arts has been active in organizing practical activities for its members, resulting in many high-quality works. Many of the works won national and international awards, contributing to the achievement of Vietnam Union of Literary and the Arts Association. Currently, Khanh Hoa Provincial Association of Literature and the Arts has 369 members, including many who are also the members of central associations, 8 State Prize winners, 4 People's Artists, and 14 Meritorious Artists.

To be fully prepared for the new era of rapid growth, the province’s authorities must continue offering support to the artists and writers; create favorable conditions and encourage artists and writers to promote their creativity and conduct theoretical and critical research; nurture young talent. More emphasis should be placed on field trips. Additionally, maintaining good collaboration with associations of literature and the arts nationwide will help spread both artists and writers and their works.

- Thank you for your answers!

Giang Dinh
Translated by H.N