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The Giving of "Art"

Comfort and Connection

Giving is about sharing my creative talents to enrich the lives of those around me. Through my voluntary involvement in painting and music, whether it's preparing artwork for projects or playing music and dancing for my community, I contribute to creating meaningful experiences. I believe that giving can take many forms—sometimes it's the gift of art that inspires, and other times it's music that brings comfort or joy. By offering my skills and time, I aim to foster connection and bring beauty into the world, knowing that these acts of giving can brighten someone's day or inspire a new perspective.

Painting 
The Giving of Colors and Beauty

My talents have been used to uplift and support others. My voluntary involvement in painting for my friends and community is one way I contribute to projects that matter. Whether it's preparing comics for the Bionimation Project or helping friends bring their creative visions to life, I find joy in offering my skills to benefit others. Giving isn't just about the act itself; it's about fostering collaboration, connection, and shared growth. Through painting, I contribute to causes that inspire learning, build community, and bring people together, showing that giving can make a real impact when it's driven by passion and purpose.

Since my early age, I was enchanted by the limitless possibilities of expressing my imagination and ideas through the art of drawing and painting. Whether it was on scraps of paper, walls, or any available surface, I constantly sketched, driven by a passion to bring my inner world to life. My fascination with shapes, colors, and forms consumed me, and I explored every opportunity to refine my skills. My passion for drawing led me to win an award at the "Road to the Stars" competition organized by the Russian Embassy in Vietnam. Additionally, I participated in face painting for children at the European Village event, contributing to this vibrant cultural celebration.

As the years passed, my artistic journey evolved, and my brushstrokes matured with greater precision and depth. One of the most profound sources of inspiration came from the breathtaking scenery I encountered during our annual family trips to the northern regions of Vietnam, especially during the Lunar New Year. The majestic mountains, rolling clouds, and the rich cultural tapestry of ethnic communities in places like Lao Cai, Ha Giang, and Tuyen Quang became etched in my memory. The vivid sights of terraced rice fields, misty peaks, and the resilient people living in harmony with nature fueled my creativity. I became deeply committed to capturing these scenes on canvas, almost as if I was trying to immortalize the beauty and tranquility of these landscapes in my work. Each painting became a reflection of my admiration for the region, its people, and the serenity it inspired in me.

Xuan 1
Xuan 2
Xuan 3
He 1
He 2
Thu 1
Thu 2
Dong 1
Dong 2
Dong 3

Fireflies - Wall painting Project

In 2020, I founded the Fireflies Wall Painting project with the goal of decorating our community, and through that, creating a space where people with similar values can come together. Through this initiative, we work on murals and other creative projects that beautify public spaces, bringing color and art into everyday environments.

What truly makes this project special is the connection it fosters among friends and community members who share my passion for creativity, collaboration, and service. Together, we’ve established a strong network of nearly 20 high school students from across Hanoi, all united by their love for painting. In just a short time, we have successfully transformed over 10 walls throughout the city into stunning murals, each with its own unique story and message.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the Wall Painting project is witnessing the joy it brings to people, particularly children, as they explore their community filled with vibrant murals. The colorful artwork transforms ordinary spaces into places of wonder and imagination, igniting joy and curiosity in the hearts of those who encounter it. It's truly heartwarming to see children run up to the murals, excitedly pointing out their favorite elements, their eyes sparkling with pride and wonder. These murals not only beautify the area but also foster a sense of identity and belonging within the community. They serve as a powerful reminder of how art can uplift spirits and inspire creativity, reinforcing the notion that beauty can emerge from collaboration.

There have been memorable moments throughout this journey that highlight our community spirit. On one occasion, while we were painting, local children and elders eagerly joined in, adding their own touches to the artwork. During another project, where we created a mural focused on COVID-19 awareness, local policemen also participated, lending their support and adding their creativity to the endeavor. This inclusivity encourages diversity and fosters a sense of ownership among community members, resulting in an overwhelmingly positive response from local residents.

Through the Fireflies project, we continue to celebrate the power of art to bring people together, foster joy, and create lasting change within our community. Each mural stands as a testament to our collective effort and the vibrant spirit of Hanoi, reminding us all of the beauty that can arise when creativity and community unite.

Music
The Giving of Melody

Since I was 4 or 5 years old, dancing has been an integral part of my life, shaping not only my artistic expression but also my personal growth. I started at a young age, learning the basics of movement, rhythm, and coordination. Dance has allowed me to communicate emotions and stories without words. Performing on stage has been both exciting and challenging, helping me build confidence in front of an audience. These performances have given me the opportunity to grow as both an individual and a dancer, teaching me discipline, perseverance, and the importance of practice. Dance has become a powerful way for me to connect with people, whether it's through a shared appreciation of the art form or the emotions conveyed in a performance.

Piano and Vietnamese Guzheng

Playing both the guzheng and the piano represents a beautiful combination of tradition and modernity, much like myself. The guzheng, with its deep cultural roots and ancient melodies, connects me to my heritage and traditional values. On the other hand, the piano, with its versatility and presence in contemporary music, allows me to express myself in a modern and innovative way. This balance reflects who I am—a young person who values tradition while also embracing the new and modern. Through these instruments, I find harmony between the past and the present, blending the richness of both worlds in my musical journey.

 

When I play the guzheng or the piano, I’m not just expressing myself; I’m offering a piece of my heart to the audience. Each note becomes a gift, inviting listeners into a shared experience of joy, nostalgia, or even introspection. This act of giving through music fosters a sense of community, as people come together to enjoy and appreciate the art form. Whether it’s performing for friends, family, or in a more public setting, the joy of sharing music is a reminder of our shared humanity and the power of art to bring us closer together.

Dance performance

At the age of 5, I experimented with performing dance, and some of my performances were dedicated to children with special circumstances. These experiences were deeply meaningful, as I could share my passion for dance with children who faced unique challenges. Seeing their smiles and excitement as they watched the performances made me realize the power of dance to uplift and inspire. It was a privilege to bring a moment of joy and escape to their lives, knowing that the art of movement could connect with them in ways that went beyond words. Those performances reinforced my belief in using dance to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

In high school, I participated in dance performances at various events, which not only helped me get along well with my friends and connect with others but also allowed me to contribute meaningfully to the team. Through these performances, I experienced the joy of giving—whether it was through sharing ideas, helping with choreography, or offering support during practices. Being part of the team wasn’t just about dancing; it was about building trust, collaboration, and contributing my efforts for the success of everyone. These experiences strengthened my relationships and deepened my sense of teamwork and generosity.

Other interest
Trekking

Beyond my artistic activities, I enjoy mountain climbing and trekking through forests. While physically demanding, these experiences from a young age have fostered my love for nature. A particularly memorable trip to the Hanoi Station of Biodiversity at age 10 allowed me to explore the plant and animal world, understand the importance of conservation, and appreciate the symbiotic relationships in nature. These experiences have played a key role in shaping my passion for biology.

Gia Han Thai

(+84) 833 100 507

thaigiahan@gmail.com

Hanoi - Amsterdam High School for the Gifted

Biology Honors Class of 2025

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