HoangNam Nguyen
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Advisor: Heejoo Gwen Kim
Artist Bio
HoangNam is originally from Vietnam and migrated to the United States with his family at a young age. Starting a new life in the US was challenging, and with limited access to technology, he found inspiration in shows and movies like Avatar: The Last Airbender, Jimmy Neutron, Ratatouille, and others. These films sparked his interest in storytelling, sound composing, and animation. He is currently pursuing a BFA in Motion Design and Animation at the University of Connecticut. HoangNam was also a competitive ballroom dancer for ten years and a dance instructor for seven. Through dancing, he gained a deeper understanding of music, art, communication, and body movement, which he applies to his animation work. His goal is to use his skills to create animations that communicate the power and beauty of his culture, sharing it with the world around him.
Artist Statement
“Phở Real” is a virtual museum that highlights the history of Vietnamese beef noodle soup, known as “Phở.” Phở is a beloved dish in Vietnam, and over the past decade, it has gained popularity in the United States and worldwide. The museum will be divided into three sections, each telling a unique story about Phở. The audience will control a 3D character in first-person view, allowing them to explore the museum at their own pace. “Phở Real” creates an immersive experience that evokes memories of my childhood and culture. Originally from Vietnam, I moved to the United States at a young age. I was excited to learn about Western food, movies, language, fashion, and music. In my pursuit of fitting into Western culture, I started forgetting my own roots. Philosopher George Berkeley once said, “To be is to be perceived” (esse est percipi). This means that without perception, nothing exists. I realized that if I don’t embrace my culture and share it, it may fade from others’ memories. Through this work, I aim to inspire others to appreciate and share their own cultures, preserving them for future generations.
