Born to a glass painter and a poet, Teo Nguyen is a remarkable Vietnamese-American artist living in Minnesota. Teo is creating breathtaking new art that captures the beauty of real-life scenes, nature, solitude, struggle, and identity. His work showcases a deep connection to both his heritage and his surroundings, revealing layers of meaning and emotion in each piece.

Teo Nguyen’s artistry is a testament to his unique perspective as both an immigrant and an artist. He says, “As an immigrant and an artist, I have learned to embrace the American spirit of freedom that says if you see a road that interests you, go ahead: venture down it. Even so, I am always a stranger to what I see; always slightly outside, finding in what is ordinary to others something tender and strange.”

Nguyen finds much of his inspiration by immersing himself in nature. He begins his creative process by sketching outdoors, capturing the essence of his creations before transforming them into larger-scale works in his studio. His photorealistic pieces are so meticulously crafted that, at first glance, they could be mistaken for photographs. The balance of light and space in Nguyen’s work is masterful, creating stunning scenes that leave viewers in awe.

Teo Nguyen’s art not only reflects the physical beauty of the world but also invites us to see the extraordinary in the ordinary. Through his eyes, familiar landscapes become tender and strange, offering a new perspective on identity and existence.

Photo:Teo Nguyen

Photo:Teo Nguyen

Photo:Teo Nguyen

Reference:https://www.teonguyen.com/studiob#/galleryt3/

https://new.artsmia.org/exhibition/teo-nguyen-viet-nam-peace-project