the artists

Duy Huynh

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artist's statement

My interest in art began shortly after my arrival to the United States in the early 80's. Though sunny California was a welcomed change from the chaotic environment of Vietnam, unfamiliar faces, languages, and surrounding left me with a sense of displacement. Luckily, I was able to find refuge in the art of cartoons, comics, and graffiti. At the time, the artists I looked up to were considered vandals. Though some of their work was illegally rendered, I've always admired their passion and willingness to share it with the public. I was able to experience that same passion when I began painting murals soon after graduation from UNC Charlotte. I saw it as a quick way to reach the general public who may not have the time or simply the interest in visiting galleries. I opted to showcase my work not just in galleries, but also in coffee shops, bars, music venues and restaurants - places that are already frequently visited.

As it is with many artists, my work is an extension of life and experiences. My paintings are mostly figurative, primarily narrative, and sensitive in exploring issues of Asian traditions, my family, and relationships. It is a continual exploration of motion and emotion in order to portray not just the beauty of the human form, but the triumph of the human spirit. The desire is to achieve a synthesis of artistic and cultural elements from the East and West to produce dreamlike imagery that imbues a sense of freedom and tranquilly. In a sense, Eastern moods, through Western modes, and vice versa.

People usually react one of two ways when they learn that I'm an artist. Some express their admiration for having the courage to pursue my life's dream, while others express sympathy because they believe I'll be a dreamer for the rest of my life. In any case, art has become more of a lifestyle rather than a career choice - meaning I'll always continue to create even in the absence of monetary benefit. Through the years it has become a very therapeutic means of documenting the many wonders as will as concerns of our impermanent existence. Many say that time is money. Money as with any other object can be replaced when lost. Time on the other hand is a permanently lost gift if not used wisely.