Đẹp: Reimagining Beauty in the Vietnamese Diaspora

On May 13th, 2024, the Mingei International Museum in Balboa Park will host a groundbreaking art exhibition titled "Đẹp," meaning beautiful in Vietnamese. This exhibition isn't merely a display of art; it's a movement challenging entrenched beauty standards within Vietnamese culture.

"Đẹp" aims to revolutionize societal norms that have labeled certain features as 'ugly' and instead celebrates diversity and inclusivity in beauty. Through the powerful medium of painting, the exhibition urges viewers to question idealized beauty standards and embrace a more expansive understanding of beauty that reflects the rich tapestry of Vietnamese people.

Featuring works by artist Linh Nguyen, "Đẹp" presents a collection of paintings celebrating characteristics historically marginalized in beauty standards. From dark skin tones to LGBTQ identities, each artwork challenges preconceived notions and invites viewers to appreciate beauty in its myriad forms.

Alongside the paintings, the exhibition includes a digital presentation of clips of beauty standards in Vietnam, a photograph showcasing diverse skin tones, and a portrait station for visitors to explore their own beauty. Furthermore, a fireside chat and round table discussion led by Linh Nguyen will deepen the conversation about beauty, identity, and self-acceptance.

Đẹp is not just a statement; it's a movement towards a more inclusive, affirming, and diverse understanding of beauty within the Vietnamese community.

About the Artist

Linh Nguyen, a Vietnamese immigrant artist, calligrapher, and muralist, is currently based in San Diego. Born and raised in Vietnam, Linh's artistic journey is deeply rooted in her immigrant experience and her cultural heritage. Drawing inspiration from her roots, Linh's work is a captivating blend of traditional Vietnamese motifs, contemporary flair, and personal narratives. Her art serves as a bridge between her past growing up in Vietnam and her present living in the US.

Her passion for advocacy through art drives her collaborations with various organizations in the Asian Pacific Islander (API) community, where she strives to amplify marginalized voices and celebrate diversity. Her work has been exhibited in Art Museum in her hometown and painted murals in the US & Vietnam. @linhnguyen.art

About Viet Voices

Viet Voices is a non-profit dedicated to serving the Vietnamese community in San Diego County. Our mission is to bring more resources, programs, and services into our community. We provide public education to the community on various issues such as affordable housing access, tenant protections, economic stability and support for small businesses, education on green environmental alternatives, food justice, and health equity.

We commit to doing our work in both Vietnamese and English, which is effective for our refugee & immigrant community. We aim to build community power for our Vietnamese community through civic engagement and our grassroots community organizing. @vietvoices_sd

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