In this 'Talk with Chus' article, join CHUS to meet Quynh Nhu, the owner of Nhu Pham Art, and experience the beauty of paper marbling art in her first workshop. Nhu will share her story and artistic journey while also providing interesting insights about paper marbling in Vietnam.

1. Could you tell us a bit about yourself and your paper marbling workshop?

I'm Quynh Nhu, born and raised in Ho Chi Minh City. Ever since I was a child, I've had a passion for painting. I would draw and play for hours, and I even won prizes for my artwork at school. When I was in 10th grade, I prepared for the Ho Chi Minh City University of Architecture. While I studied diligently, I eventually decided to pursue a degree in English Language. 

In 2019, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, I decided to establish Nhu Pham Art after many a long time just staying at home. It's become my personal art brand that celebrates the natural beauty of flowers and leaves.

In today's workshop, I want to introduce you to marbling art, a centuries-old technique that originated in China and spread to Japan, Europe, America, and eventually Vietnam.

In Ho Chi Minh City, there is a couple from Han Nom Duong who restore precious books and create marbled art in special editions. In Hanoi, marbling is also practiced by an elementary school teacher who teaches her students this unique art form. Fortunately, the children also genuinely enjoy experiencing this art.

Nhu Pham marbles a pattern on the water surface

Some marbled paper designs made in the workshop

Handmade bookmarks with marbled paper

2. How come nature becomes a big inspiration for your artworks? 

There are two reasons why I love to paint flowers and leaves.

Firstly, as a city dweller living in a busy and crowded environment, I find solace in the beauty of nature. Flowers and leaves represent all that is pure, natural, and life-giving.

Secondly, my mother loves to grow plants, and our home has always been filled with fresh flowers and greenery. This has influenced my design aesthetic, and it is why flowers and leaves are such a prominent theme in my work.

I hope that my art can bring a touch of nature and beauty into the lives of others. I want people to see my paintings and feel inspired to appreciate the simple things in life.

3. What do you expect others to feel when looking at your artworks?

Fortunately, what I expect seems to align closely with reality. I strive to create paintings with harmonious colors that evoke a sense of freshness.  It wasn’t my intention but my way of mixing colors seems to resonate with many people. They often describe her paintings as "pleasant to look at," which is the highest compliment I could ask for.

Some decorative art prints from Nhu Pham’s original watercolor artwork

4. In addition to art prints and stickers, you have an interesting creation: paper dolls. Where did you get the idea to create these dolls? 

My inspiration to make paper dolls mostly comes from my curiosity and love of experimentation with new materials and techniques. At first, I created simple paper dolls with basic clothing and limbs. But in 2019, I wanted to incorporate Vietnamese essence into my work, so I decided to create paper dolls wearing traditional ao dai. Of course, I also added my signature flowers and leaves.

Original paper doll painted with watercolor by Nhu Pham Art

A finished product of paper doll

5. Why did you choose to collaborate with CHUS?

CHUS is an e-commerce platform that shares my vision of promoting Vietnamese handmade products. I believe in the beauty and quality of Vietnamese handicrafts, just as I believe in the beauty and quality of my artworks. I hope that together, we can reach more potential customers and introduce them to the wonders of Vietnamese craftsmanship.

Nhu Pham Art's creations are now available on CHUS. If you share a passion for natural-inspired themes like flowers, greenery, or simply appreciate the creative mind of this young artist, consider paying her store a visit. With a diverse range of products, from art prints and artistic paper dolls to stickers and vibrant, delightful greeting cards, Nhu Pham Art might just add some positive vibes to your day!