Thuy Linh Vu is a creative figurative abstract artist from Vietnam. In this interview she shares her unique journey through the art world.
Could you introduce yourself?
My name is Thuy Linh Vu and I was born in Hanoi, Vietnam. I’m currently 36 years old and reside in Berlin, Germany. I’ve always had a deep passion for art, and this has shaped much of my personal and professional journey. Living in Berlin, a city known for its vibrant and diverse art scene, has inspired me to explore new creative possibilities and further develop my artistic skills.
What did you want to become later during your childhood?
Growing up in Berlin, I was always surrounded by creativity and curiosity about the world around me. As a child, I wanted to become a teacher, specifically in art and biology. Art fascinated me because it allowed me to express myself and connect with others through visual storytelling. At the same time, biology sparked my interest in understanding the natural world. The idea of combining these two passions and sharing that knowledge with others in a teaching role really inspired me during my childhood.
What studies have you completed?
I completed my studies in Public and International Health. This field allowed me to explore a range of topics related to health systems, global health challenges, and the ways in which health intersects with society and culture. While it’s different from my childhood dream of studying art and biology, my education in public health has given me a broader perspective on how health and well-being are influenced by various factors, both locally and internationally. This knowledge has been invaluable in understanding how art, health, and social issues can intersect and inform each other.
What work did you do before you started making art?
Before I began pursuing art part-time, I worked as a health economist in the life science industry. My work focused on analyzing healthcare systems and policies, evaluating the economic impact of health interventions, and finding ways to improve healthcare outcomes while managing resources efficiently. It’s a field that requires both analytical and strategic thinking, and it has given me a profound understanding of the complex interplay between health and economics. Alongside this, I create art, which provides a creative outlet and allows me to express ideas from a completely different perspective. Balancing both careers had been enriching and fulfilling.
When did you start making art?
I’ve been painting since I was a child. Art has always been a part of my life, serving as a way for me to express my thoughts and emotions from an early age. Even as I pursued my professional career in health economics, my passion for painting never faded. Over the years, I’ve continued to develop my skills and explore new techniques. Art has always been a constant, and it allows me to connect with different aspects of myself and the world around me.
What has motivated you to make art?
My motivation for making art comes from a deep desire to express emotions, ideas, and perspectives that can’t always be conveyed through words. Since childhood, painting has been a way for me to process the world around me, whether through the beauty of nature, human experiences, or societal challenges. Additionally, my work as a health economist has also influenced my artistic practice, observing the complexities of life, health, and well-being motivates me to create art that reflects those themes. Art allows me to explore a different side of myself, giving me the freedom to experiment, reflect, and communicate in a way that feels deeply personal and universal at the same time.
`Since childhood painting has been a way for me to process the world around me.´
What kind of art do you make?
I focus primarily on painting, exploring themes that revolve around nature, human emotions, and societal dynamics. My work often blends abstract and figurative styles, allowing me to experiment with different techniques and materials to convey deeper, sometimes personal, narratives. I enjoy creating art that evokes emotion and invites the viewer to reflect on their own experiences. My art is deeply influenced by my surroundings and the complexities of life, often expressing ideas of balance, connection, and introspection.
When is an art piece complete or successful from your point of view?
For me, an art piece feels complete when it resonates with the emotion or idea I intended to convey. It’s less about technical perfection and more about a sense of balance and harmony within the composition. Sometimes, I’ll step back and feel a connection to the work, a moment where everything feels right, and there’s nothing more I feel compelled to add or change. A piece is successful when it evokes a response, whether it’s in me or the viewer. If it sparks reflection, emotion, or conversation, I consider it successful. Ultimately, art is about creating a dialogue, both internally and externally.
Are you a perfectionist?
It depends. When it comes to my art, I’m not strictly a perfectionist. I focus more on the emotional impact and allow imperfections to add character and authenticity to the piece. However, as a designer, I do tend to be more of a perfectionist. Design requires precision, attention to detail, and a certain level of structure, so I aim for things to be just right in that context. Whether it’s ensuring the right balance, color harmony, or alignment, I strive for a high level of quality in my design work. In art, I let the process flow, but in design, I prioritize precision and execution.
Can you remember the first art piece that you have created?
Yes, I can still remember the first art piece I created when I was around six years old. It was a watercolor painting of dinosaurs and landscapes, two subjects that fascinated me as a child. I was captivated by the idea of combining these ancient creatures with the vibrant scenery, and I spent hours bringing it to life on paper. Even though it was simple and playful, it sparked my passion for creating and expressing myself through art. That memory still holds a special place in my heart and reminds me of how freeing and joyful the creative process can be.
Can you name a few locations (like galleries, museums, exhibitions etc) where you showed your pieces?
I’ve been fortunate to showcase my work in several notable venues and events. Some of the key locations include the Women in Art Biennale in London, which was an incredible platform for female artists, and various international art fairs in Brussels, Paris, and Miami, where I had the opportunity to connect with a global audience. Additionally, my work has been exhibited at the Museum of Modern Art in Barcelona, which was a particularly memorable experience. These exhibitions have given me the chance to share my art with diverse audiences and engage with the international art community. If you’d like to have a look at the full list of exhibitions, feel free to reach out!
What is your source of inspiration when creating art?
A major source of inspiration for me comes from being raised in a bicultural environment, having roots in both Vietnam and Germany. This unique blend of cultures has deeply influenced my perspective on identity, tradition, and the way I see the world. I often draw from the contrasts and connections between these two cultures, whether it’s the visual aesthetics, the philosophies, or the emotions tied to my heritage. Nature and human emotions are also central to my work, along with my personal experiences navigating different cultures. Creating art allows me to explore these themes, express my sense of belonging, and connect with people across different backgrounds. This rich cultural tapestry continues to inspire me, shaping my artistic voice.
What do you want people to experience when they watch your art?
When people engage with my art, I want them to feel a sense of connection, whether it’s to their own emotions, memories, or thoughts. I hope that my work evokes reflection, curiosity, and perhaps even a sense of introspection. Coming from a bicultural background, my art often reflects themes of identity, belonging, and the merging of different worlds. I want viewers to see not only the visual elements but also feel the deeper layers of meaning behind each piece. Ideally, my work inspires conversations, emotions, or a new perspective, allowing viewers to interpret and relate to it in their own unique way. If someone leaves feeling more connected or thoughtful, then I feel like my art has achieved its purpose.
What is the most special art piece you have created? And why?
One of the most special pieces I’ve created is titled “Elephants in the Room.” It stands out not because of the technique, but because of the subject it addresses. The piece explores communication problems in relationships, where unspoken issues lead to doubts, second-guessing, and misunderstandings. It reflects on how leaving too much room for interpretation can create barriers, especially when people struggle to express themselves openly. This theme is particularly significant in Southeast Asian cultures, where indirect communication can have a profound impact on both personal and professional relationships. In such contexts, the inability to communicate clearly can affect everything from family dynamics to career growth. This piece is deeply meaningful to me because it highlights a universal challenge but also connects to cultural nuances that I’ve experienced firsthand.
Generally, people tend to react to my artwork with curiosity and reflection. Many viewers are drawn to the emotional depth and the themes of identity, communication, and cultural nuances that I explore. I often receive feedback that my work sparks conversations and personal interpretations, especially when it touches on universal experiences like relationships or human emotions. For pieces like “Elephants in the Room,” which address communication issues, people often mention how it resonates with their own experiences, leading to a deeper connection with the art. Some viewers find meaning in the symbolic aspects of my work, while others are captivated by the visual elements. Overall, I aim for my art to evoke thought, and I’m happy when people leave feeling more engaged or introspective.
What is the most special reaction you have received on an artwork?
One of the most special reactions I received was to a piece I created called “A Wild Hat.” The artwork symbolizes self-expression and breaking away from societal norms, using bold colors and eccentric shapes to reflect the freedom of embracing one’s true self, free from expectations. A viewer shared with me that the piece deeply resonated with them because they had spent years conforming to societal pressures, suppressing their individuality. Seeing “A Wild Hat” made them feel empowered, as if it gave them permission to embrace their own uniqueness and break free from the constraints they felt.
This reaction had a profound impact on me. It made me realize how art can be a powerful vehicle for liberation, encouraging people to express their true selves and reject limitations placed on them by society. Hearing that my work inspired someone to reconsider how they live their life was incredibly rewarding. It reinforced my belief in the importance of creating art that challenges norms and celebrates individuality, and it motivated me to continue pushing boundaries with my work.
´Art can be a powerful vehicle for liberation, encouraging people to express their true selves and reject limitations placed on them by society.´
What makes you proud?
I’m proud of the journey I’ve taken and the challenges I’ve faced, both personally and professionally. These experiences have shaped me into the person I am today, helping me grow, take risks, and embrace life fully. Whether it’s navigating cultural differences, balancing my creative and professional life, or overcoming personal obstacles, each step has strengthened my resilience. I take pride in having a hands-on mentality, approaching every challenge with determination and a willingness to learn. It’s this combination of embracing risks and staying grounded in my values that makes me proud of how far I’ve come.
What do you want to improve about yourself?
I’d like to improve my ability to not overthink things too much. While being thoughtful and detail-oriented has its advantages, I’ve found that overanalyzing can sometimes slow down my decision-making. I’m focusing on becoming more decisive and trusting my judgment in both personal and professional situations. By simplifying my thought process, I hope to bring more efficiency and confidence to my actions, allowing me to move forward with clarity and focus.
Who is your role model?
My role model in life is my mom. She is a real fighter. Her resilience is something I deeply admire. When we first came to Germany, she didn’t speak a single word of German. She had to live with a decision that wasn’t hers, to raise her child in a foreign country, completely alone, without knowing anyone, facing language barriers and an entirely different culture. It wasn’t easy, but she never gave up.
Our relationship hasn’t always been smooth, we’ve had our differences, and at times, things were really difficult. But through those challenges, I had to shape myself. Experiencing everything we went through made me who I am today. In a way, her struggles and strength became a catalyst for my own growth, pushing me to find my own voice, both in life and in my art.
What is your life slogan?
My life slogan is “Embrace the journey, not just the destination.” I believe that the process of growth, learning, and self-discovery is just as important—if not more—than reaching any particular goal. Whether in my personal life, professional career, or artistic practice, I try to stay open to new experiences, take risks, and appreciate every step of the way. For me, it’s about being present, adapting to challenges, and finding meaning in each part of the journey.
What are your future plans?
In the future, I plan to continue evolving as an artist and designer, exploring new creative projects and opportunities. I’m particularly excited about upcoming ventures that blend my artistic work with meaningful causes, such as collaborating with charities and giving back through my creative endeavors. While I have some exciting projects in development, I’ll share more details once they take shape. Ultimately, I’m looking forward to expanding my artistic impact, finding new ways to connect with a broader audience, and contributing to causes I care about along the way.
How can people reach you?
You can reach me through several platforms. I’m active on Instagram, where I share updates about my work, exhibitions, and projects. You can follow me at @thuylinhvustudio. For more detailed information or inquiries, feel free to email me directly at connect@thuylinhvustudio.com. I’m always open to connecting with others who are interested in my work or potential collaborations, so don’t hesitate to get in touch!