Born in 1992 in Hamlet 6, Xuan Thanh Commune, Xuan Truong District, Nguyen The Tuyen began his passion for making ancient house models in 2022. He shared that his childhood memories with his grandparents' house became his biggest source of inspiration. "This job is both a personal joy and a way for me to preserve traditional cultural and architectural values. Each model I create has its own story, full of nostalgia," he confided.
However, the journey to pursue his passion was not a bed of roses. Initially, Tuyen had difficulty finding materials, learning how to use manufacturing tools and testing new techniques. Balancing time and finances was also a big challenge. He was discouraged many times, but every time he saw the completed model, the joy and satisfaction from customers as well as his love for traditional architecture gave him the motivation to continue.
Nguyen The Tuyen started his passion for making ancient house models in 2022.
To accurately recreate the beauty of ancient houses, Nguyen The Tuyen uses a variety of materials such as concrete, steel, bricks, tiles, natural wood and plastic. The choice of suitable materials depends on the characteristics of each model, helping to create authenticity and vitality for each work.
A completed work usually goes through many meticulous steps. First, Tuyen carefully researches the architecture and history of the house through documents, images or stories from customers. Then, he sketches out ideas and designs detailed drawings using 3D technology. Next, he selects and prepares materials, from steel, cement to wood and plastic, to assemble the model. The final step is to finish the surface, paint and create the time effect.
Mr. Tuyen shared that the most difficult part of the process is recreating small details such as roof tiles, window frames or decorative objects. These details require patience and high skills because they determine the liveliness and authenticity of the model. “These details require patience and meticulousness because they contribute to creating the “soul” of the house,” he said.
To accurately recreate the beauty of ancient houses, Nguyen The Tuyen used many types of materials to make them as realistic as possible.
A memorable memory for Mr. Tuyen was when he received a request from a customer who wanted to rebuild their family's old house. The house had been demolished a long time ago, remaining only in a few old, unclear photos and descriptions from memory. He spent a lot of time researching, listening and visualizing, then put all his heart into recreating it. The result was a model that deeply moved the customer, and according to him, it was a "great satisfaction" both in terms of emotion and the value that the work brought to him and the customer.
Among the orders he has made, the models recreating customers' old houses are the products that Mr. Tuyen is especially proud of. "It is not only an art product but also a way for me to help them preserve and recreate memories, an important part of their spiritual life," he said.
According to Mr. Tuyen, the value of a model lies not only in the materials or effort put into it, but also in the story and emotions it brings. “Each work is a unique work, associated with the memories and culture of a particular period. A separate story, a different life and this makes them attractive,” he shared.
“It's not only an art product but also a way for me to help them preserve and recreate memories..."
Model making has brought many positive changes to Nguyen The Tuyen’s life, not only in personal aspects but also opened up new opportunities. “I have learned patience and creativity through each work. At the same time, this job also helps me connect with customers, expand my network of cooperation and introduce models at art exhibitions,” he shared.
Regarding future plans, Mr. Tuyen plans to expand his collection of highly artistic models and organize exhibitions to spread his love for traditional architectural values. He also cherishes the idea of holding workshops where he can share his skills, experiences and inspire young people who share the same passion. With meticulousness and enthusiasm, Mr. Tuyen has recreated the beauty of ancient houses, while preserving precious pieces of memories. His works are not only art but also a bridge between the past and the present, expressing his respect for traditional cultural values.
