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Vietnamese American Royalty

I use illustration to have a conversation with parts of my identity I’m unsure of. At this moment, that includes creating art about what being Vietnamese means to me when I’m 1st/ 2nd generation whose family made the effort to assimilate with American customs. I’m asking questions without easy answers when I make art; Specifically, Am I Vietnamese enough? How much is enough? And most importantly: Does it even matter? Making thesis answered some questions but it raised so many more. I won’t answer these questions anytime soon, but my ongoing investigation into culture has taught me one thing: I am Vietnamese enough.

Vietnamese-American Royalty is about demystifying the traditional, celebrating family, and bridging the information gap that was created in the diaspora. I want to engage and celebrate my culture, and I want to unapologetically be myself. While I don’t think’ I’m quite there yet, this project changed me for the better; and I think this is the start of something beautiful.

Bio

Marcus Truong was born in Colorado, raised in Arizona, and grew up in Washington State. Beginning his art career in high school he received Honorable mentions at the PSESD Regional high school art show. He received the Rotary Club Art Award and ASB Art Award in his senior year of high school.

In college at Maine College of Art & Design, he has received the Above & Beyond Grant, and the Diversity & Equity Grant. After becoming a MECA&D graduate in May of 2025, he will return to Tucson, Arizona to start creating paintings, picture books, and clothing