Nat Vuong

Nyob Zoo! Nat Vuong (They/Them) is a Queer Hmong-Vietnamese American artist based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. As a third generation American, they feel as though they have little connection to their ethnic roots. Throughout their life they have never felt quite Asian enough or American enough for either side. Thus, they utilize artistic expression as a way to relearn and reconnect with their cultural heritage ties. As for exploring their identity as a queer person, they create artwork that connects with other queer people who were never exposed to queer representation in media growing up. For the Trailblazer Fellowship, Nat will be pursuing fine arts at Minneapolis College of Art and Design, and in turn, eventually using their artwork to connect with their local community. 

The initial grant Nat received from the Ann Bancroft Foundation was put towards purchasing art supplies to create a body of work dedicated to their exploration of cultural identity. This body of work is on display at the Hmong Museum in Hmong Village until August 15th, 2026.

When asked what advice they would offer to their younger self, Nat shared, “Don't give up. Though others may doubt you, though you may doubt yourself, do not give up on your dreams.”