Fifty-five artisans have been conferred with titles of "meritorious artisans" in Ha Noi and HCM City in recognition of their contribution to preserving and upholding intangible culture values. — VNA/VNS Photo Phuong Vy

HA NOI (VNS) — Fifty-five artisans have been conferred with titles of "meritorious artisans" in Ha Noi and HCM City in recognition of their contribution to preserving and upholding intangible culture values.

The ceremonies were held in both cities to mark the Viet Nam Cultural Heritage Day which falls on November 23.

Eligible artisans are those who have operated at least 15 years in the field of folk art performance such as ca tru (ceremonial singing), cong chieng (gongs) and xam (ballads once sung by blind buskers), and in the field of folklore such as traditional foods, traditional musical instrument making and dieu sao (Vietnamese kites that make music).

Artist Pham Thi Hue said she was very happy and moved to be conferred with the title. The award would help to improve the awareness of young generations to the importance of cultural heritage.

However, she said, more support from the State was needed to help artisans preserve and uphold intangible cultural values as well as encourage young people to join in preserving culture.

The State should also have specific development orientation for each kind of folk art, she said. Artisans, on their own initiative, try to find different ways to hand down, perform and promote folk culture even now. — VNS