Kenny Nguyen: The courage and curiosity of material

Vietnamese–American artist Kenny Nguyen creates sculptural paintings that blur the boundaries between textile, painting and form. Working with torn silk soaked in pigment, his practice explores memory, migration and transformation. In this conversation, Kenny reflects on material sensitivity, cultural identity, and the quiet courage it takes to deconstruct and rebuild – both in art and in life.

Show Notes

Key takeaways from this episode:

• Destruction can be a generative act. Kenny’s process of tearing silk becomes a metaphor for rebuilding identity – sometimes breaking something apart is the only way to create something new. Where might you need to let go in your own practice?

• Materials carry memory. Silk, for Kenny, is not just a medium but a cultural and emotional anchor. Understanding the history and energy of your materials can deepen the meaning of your work.

• Adaptability shapes both art and identity. His artworks physically shift with each installation, reflecting the experience of migration – “how we become very adaptive to environments.” How might flexibility become a strength in your creative process?

• Sensitivity is a skill. From recognising fabric by touch to observing subtle colour shifts, Kenny shows that attentiveness to material leads to richer, more nuanced work.

• Being stuck is part of finishing. “When I get stuck is when I get to that ninety nine percent.” Rather than resisting it, he leans into stillness and trust – a reminder that pause and patience are integral to completion.

During the live interview, we shared some images of Kenny’s artwork. Since you’re listening to the podcast version, we’ve made these images available for you below. 

Join the conversation

What inspired you this episode? Share your biggest insight or favourite moment on social media, and tag @TakeTwoArtCourses. 

Explore the images from this episode: