EG: (r)Evolution of Gender – Hien Nguyen

Hien Nguyen
Artist Statement

Originally, I plan to include just my recent works for the show. However, Kriss and Eliot have convinced me to include my older works as well. Doing so would reveal the transformation through the years and a search for identity.

I started out working with bald beings as my subjects. They created a clone-like world where everyone is the same. There is no gender. There is no race. They could represent anyone. They could represent everyone. They could represent me.

Hair came into the picture at a time of frustration. I have not came out yet and that was probably a source of some of my madness. Hair gives a person identity. People judge each other on appearances. Hairstyle is one way to express oneself.

I started to work with the Madonna and child image in street painting festivals a couple of years ago. As a sexual being, I inevitably begin mixing sexuality with the religious theme. Growing up conservative and Catholic conflicts with growing up queer. I find myself exploring themes of safe sex, relationships, and masturbation in these works. The Madonna icon has warped and transformed to represent various people, including the male figure, and is coveting different objects. My recent work embraces on a world where everyone is a little different.