Kvet Nguyen with The Slovak Spectator moderator James Thomson. (source: Elizaveta Blagodarova)
Kvet Nguyen, a visual artist, journalist, and writer, uses her art to explore themes of identity, belonging, and multiculturalism. She initially studied politics in Banská Bystrica but discovered her true passion in photography. She is currently a PhD student at the Academy of Fine Arts and Design (VŠVU) in Bratislava.
In 2017, Kvet left Slovakia for the first time to study in the UK, still trying to figure out who she truly was. “The most important thing was the starting point,” says this young artist. According to Nguyen, the main challenge minorities face is the pressure to fit into the majority, which often leads to a struggle to fully accept one’s roots and a sense that part of one’s identity is missing.
Her book Všetko čo nás spája ("All That Unites Us") reflects on her own experiences as a Vietnamese Slovak, delving into the intersections of culture, language and personal heritage. In this heartfelt narrative, Nguyen unpacks the challenges and beauty of growing up between two worlds, highlighting universal themes of family and self-discovery.
Nguyen's work has garnered attention for its authenticity and sensitivity, capturing the often-overlooked experiences of immigrant communities in Central Europe. Her stories resonate with readers of all backgrounds, emphasising empathy, resilience and the search for connection across cultures.
