What This Journey to Vietnam Was About
Last month, I traveled to Vietnam for the very first time to lead a series of professional development workshops focused on visual arts education for adults working with children. From the moment I arrived, the experience felt meaningful and energizing. Between the vibrant cities, the warmth of the people, and the shared love of learning, the trip quickly became unforgettable. I felt incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share my passion for the arts on such a global stage.
Why This Experience Felt So Meaningful
Over the course of sixteen full and rewarding days, I worked and traveled through two of Vietnam’s largest cities, Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Together, these workshops and talks reached more than four hundred teachers, administrators, and parents. This marked the first officially certified visual arts training of its kind held in Vietnam, which made the experience especially meaningful. The excitement and openness of the participants were truly inspiring.
How Culture and Art Came Together
Throughout the trip, I had many thoughtful conversations about creativity, culture, and the role of art in children’s lives. These exchanges went far beyond the classroom and opened my eyes to new perspectives. I learned just as much from the community as they shared from the training. Those moments of connection reminded me how universal art truly is.
Experiencing Vietnam Beyond the Workshops
Vietnamese hospitality left a lasting impression on me. The food alone was a celebration of color, texture, and flavor. I had the chance to try fruits and dishes I had never encountered before, each one more memorable than the last. While I was excited to enjoy an authentic bowl of phở, I was equally delighted by the many unexpected culinary discoveries. I already look forward to returning one day to experience it all again.
Celebrating the Season While Abroad
Visiting Vietnam during the holiday season added another layer of magic to the trip. Although I missed spending Christmas with my children, the festive atmosphere throughout the cities was uplifting. Streets and storefronts glowed with lights, and Christmas Eve was filled with music and celebration in public squares. At the same time, the country was preparing for Tết, the Vietnamese New Year, which brought its own sense of anticipation and cultural richness.
Inside the Professional Development Workshops
The professional development workshops were sponsored by VietNam Montessori Centre, and I was honored to work with two dedicated groups who completed the full training. These educators were the first in Vietnam to receive certification in my Nature of Art® visual arts training, which was a meaningful milestone for all of us. Their commitment and enthusiasm made each day deeply rewarding.
What Teachers Gained From the Training
Many participants shared that art had always felt out of reach due to limited exposure or confidence. During the training, teachers explored visual arts in a way that felt welcoming, accessible, and encouraging. Creating art themselves helped shift perspectives and sparked a renewed sense of curiosity. By the end of the sessions, many expressed excitement about bringing creative experiences into their own environments with greater confidence.
The Bigger Conversation Around Creativity
A recurring theme throughout my time in Vietnam centered on how culture, expectations, and societal pressures can shape creative expression. Together, we reflected on the importance of nurturing imagination and independent thinking in children. The conversations were honest, thoughtful, and often deeply moving. Hearing personal reflections and testimonials from attendees reinforced the lasting impact of the experience.
Looking Ahead With Gratitude
This trip to Vietnam was both professionally fulfilling and personally transformative. I am excited to continue working with many of the educators I met and to expand future training opportunities in the region. Experiences like this remind me why art education matters so deeply across cultures and communities.
Taking the Next Step
If you are interested in bringing thoughtful visual arts programming into your school, training center, or learning environment, supportive resources are available. With the right guidance, art can feel organized, approachable, and deeply rewarding. Imagine ending the school year feeling clear, confident, and inspired, without the stress of constant planning or second-guessing.
For deeper guidance and creative structure, explore my books, art teaching curriculum, and professional training resources.
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