Phu Nguyen

Why FSU?

My choice to pursue a master's degree in Studio Art is to refine and expand my knowledge of art concepts and techniques. I had reached a point where I needed to take myself to the next level as an artist and to offer something original and meaningful to the world around me. For this, going back to graduate school is the path I took. My choice of making Florida State University's Studio Art program the place for me to accomplish this goal is based on several reasons. The art department is full of outstanding professors and resources for me to take my relationship with art to the next level. Carrie-Anne Baade, Lilian Garcia-Roig, and Jiha Moon, three noticeable professors who are great and well-known artists in their field, are examples of the quality of mentors who will help challenge and inspire me to reach the best version as an artist. Oher professors with strong conceptual knowledge, such as Allison Spence and Meredith Lynn, will help push my understanding of what art is and how to create a unique experience for the audience when viewing my art. The program also provided resources such as the various labs that offer all the equipment I need to bring my vision to life.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

As an artist, I aim to combine visual aesthetics and deep, meaningful interaction between the audience and the artwork. The two avenues I blend to strive to reach that spot are representational forms and symbolic narrative. I wanted to express my theme through the forms we recognize but never fully reach the point of realism, often coating my work with the feel of fantasy, but deep within that, is my expression through a subtle narrative. For this, I frequently explore the crossroad between human inner emotion, the symbolism of the occult, and the contemporary digital age.

Career aspirations

As an artist, I aim to continue pushing my visual expression to a new height by improving my techniques and artistic voice. I want to create a middle ground of deep spiritual meaning and visually engaging works. On a community level, I want to contribute to the art world by offering my unique visual language to help engage with our need to understand who we are as beings with spiritual awareness.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

Graduate school is a significant decision that requires a lot of commitment. You need to reach a deep passion for your field to make this experience meaningful. As a graduate student, be prepared to have your ideas challenged and be willing to accept constructive criticism to grow.