Artist Statement

Having spent more than half of my life outside of Vietnam across several continents, I find myself revisiting my roots more and more. Each research project I undertake for my artwork not only takes me down memory lane, but also brings more clarity, confidence, and pride to my identity.

This deep cultural connection beautifully complements my fascination with the live-in-the-moment spirit of children. Children are effortlessly themselves; they speak their minds, inhabit the present, and find immense happiness in the smallest things. Kids remind me that the secret to happiness can be very simple, and my intention is to capture these fleeting, joyous moments and express them through paper.

As a contemporary paper artist, I look to the transformative power of minimalism to tell these complex cultural and emotional stories. Working entirely by hand to cut and fold, my process relies on simple, tactile tools to build dimensional relief: a pencil, an X-Acto knife, glue, and wooden dowels. Ultimately, I hope my sculptures invite viewers to look closer, evoking a pure sense of wonder; and offering a fresh, modern perspective on traditional Vietnamese heritage.