There are many
with strong artistic abilities by both young and old, but there's
not a lot of press coverage of the work of Lao artists. Moreover
with a relatively poorer population, extracurricular activities
such as buying or enjoying art or paying to go see theatrical performances
are not a priority in the country. However this should not understate
the strong capability and artistry of those involved.
We'll continue
to showcase more work as they become available. We're glad you're
enjoying it.
Apprehensive
From: USA
- When I made my first visit to Laos I was a bit apprehensive. Although
that feeling evaporated after I arrived, I was wondering if anyone
else felt the same way the first time they went back.
Reply:
People who visit
would be surprised at the number of Lao expatriates (Lao people
from abroad) who visit Laos. Many Lao people abroad feel apprehension
about going back to visit and feel that they will be singled out.
The fact is when anyone goes, you will not be unique or special
because you're Lao from abroad. This isn't meant to be rude rather
the point is that there are plenty of others from Australia, US,
France and Canada who are visiting Laos for the first time or who
are visiting again. In addition, there's also quite a large contingent
of Lao nationals who have studied abroad and are back in Laos and
quite fluent in Enlgish (or even those who are fluent in English
but never studied abroad). You'd be surprised at the number of Lao
people who used to study abroad, whether during the Soviet era or
in recent times also.
Almost everyone in Laos has family, relatives or
friends who live abroad - it's quite common. You are correct though
many people do in fact feel apprehension initially especially during
their first visit back.
Indeed one of
the most common questions I got from Lao people while in Laos was
"so is it what you imagined it would be?". My answer was
inevitably "no". Their question really was to ask whether
I had any apprehensions and if things in Laos were as they reported
abroad. In some respects it was quite different from what is written
in news stories or stories told by elders.
