“Colours of the vast primeval expanse”: Promoting heritage preservation
ĐNO - Last weekend, Da Nang Museum was unusually lively as groups of students visited the exhibition hall to join classes under the local history programme on the cultural heritage of the Cor people in Da Nang City.
The programme was a highlight of Da Nang Cultural Heritage Day, themed “Colours of the vast primeval expanse - Convergence of Da Nang's essence”, organised by Da Nang Museum to celebrate Vietnam Cultural Heritage Day (23 November).
A dynamic learning space
From 21 to 23 November, Da Nang Museum (Facility 2) welcomed hundreds of students for a programme on the cultural heritage of the Cor people. Besides touring the exhibits, students joined interactive lessons introducing key aspects of Cor culture, a minority community with deep roots in the region.
The classes aimed to provide essential knowledge while encouraging discussion and creativity. Students especially enjoyed drawing the Neu pole and the set of Gu, two important elements of Cor intangible heritage.
Carefully curated images, artefacts, slideshows, and group activities helped bring the lessons to life.
Students explored village structure, stilt houses, wedding customs, festivals, and brocade weaving, using items such as the Gu set, the Neu pole, crossbows, clothing, and musical instruments as hands-on learning tools.
Spreading the spirit of heritage preservation
Learning about the Cor people’s artefacts, customs, festivals, and traditional crafts helped students appreciate cultural diversity and develop pride and responsibility in preserving Vietnam’s heritage.
Deputy Director of Da Nang Museum (Facility 2) Tran Van Duc said the inclusion of Cor culture was intentional, as its distinctive values, from village structure to the rituals of erecting the Neu pole and the Gu set, helped bring these traditions closer to young people and turned the museum into an open learning space.
Student feedback shows strong interest in cultural-historical activities, with many requesting more sessions. Mr. Duc said upcoming classes will feature brocade weaving and the Cor people’s nói Lý - hát Lý art form (Ly recitation - Ly chant), with artisans performing on-site.