Village Anecdotes

The Hmong have lived in mountainous terrain since time immemorial, and they have accordingly constructed stilt houses, structures that are well-adapted to the surrounding environment. The craft involved in constructing these buildings has been passed down for millenia, and it is what allows Hmong buildings to stand firm on steep slopes.

The beautiful costumes that we saw at the Sisters Festival stunned us, and they also made us wonder about the Hmong pursuit of beauty in life. We thus turned to investigate the embroidery that was so integral to Hmong attire. Embroidery served as a gateway for exploring and understanding Hmong mythology, the roles that women play in Hmong society, and the history of the Hmong. Thus was the documentary “Hua’s Hmong Embroidery” born.

As one of the most important festivals for the Hmong, the Sisters Festival is also the origin of many Hmong marriages. On that day, both Hmong male and female dress up and gather together to eat the colorful Sisters rice, and love beings to descend.