Today we’d like to introduce you to Lana Duong.
Hi Lana, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I have been practicing and studying fine arts, particularly sculpture, for the past thirteen years. It took me a long time accept myself as an artist. Before I studied art, I received a degree in psychology, and a degree in biology, so I didn’t start learning to draw and paint until I was 22. I am of two ethnic backgrounds, Vietnamese and Greek. My father is a refugee and my mom, although educated, grew up poor, so doing something practical was encouraged.
Even after I began to study art, it took me a decade to understand why, and I have strong desires to express myself through material and commit to becoming an artist. No one in my family is an artist or anything close to one. I had a programmed notion that it was a less than career, so I was hesitant to pursue it. I absolutely do not think this now. I think making art is the most fulfilling thing I’ve done, and I feel that it is my calling. I now live in Culver City and am a part of an artist group that curates’ art shows and am also an artist.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not been a smooth road. Like most artists, I have had to work a few stressful jobs. I worked 100-hour shifts as a Nanny for people who were billionaires, and these environments can be chaotic. During these times, I saved money and was barely able to make art because of the stress and exhaustion from working. I did get to travel though, and had lots of interesting experiences.
I also had a severe episode with PTSD because of a traumatic event involving mental illness of someone very close to me, who I was caring for at the time. More recently, I developed long Covid from a Covid infection. I was bedridden for a few months and couldn’t do basic things like get food for myself. I had to live with my mom. I even struggle to walk long distances now and have to use a wheelchair but am able to live on my own. I continued to draw while I was sick, resting a lot between each session.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I mostly make sculpture, but also draw and paint on occasion. I am most proud of my work when it is raw and unique. I am known for making large sculptures that hang from the ceiling. I’d say my work has a quirky, authentic quality that sets me apart.
Risk-taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I would say I am a risk-taker at heart. I love risk, and although it has led to unique experiences that allow me to have a rich life, I think it has led me to live a more unstable life than I would have liked. I think that channeling risk-taking into art is the better option.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @LanatheDuong
