Visited in March 2023: What a delightful afternoon spent painting a Non La (Vietnamese conical hat) in Dong Ho style.
Dong ho style is an innovative style combining traditional folk art with contemporary Doodle Art. And since it's the Year of Cat in the Vietnamese Lunar calendar, it was only obvious that I decided to go with a chunky one for my hat.
Shapes are basic, the focus is a cat, with exaggerated features like a belly, small paws, eyes, and pointy ears. It's surrounded by stylized Banana leaves (since banana trees attract rats which cats hunt) and other supporting icons like fish, bubbles, and musical notes.
First, you have to practice on paper, basic cat shape, then a line drawing is made on the hat. Then outlines are done with 3D golden paint that gives a unique embroidered look. Then fill in acrylic colors, at least 3 coats.
Loved the little musical performance, while the paint was drying, along with the warm oolong tea. Just so soothing!