Lê Quyên Nguyễn is a Vietnamese-German visual artist whose practice explores memory, displacement, and cultural identity through experimental photography and mixed media. Her work weaves together personal narratives and social commentary, inviting reflection on belonging, connection, and transformation.
During her residency at KulttuuriKauppila in March, Quyên worked on participatory and inclusive projects. She was inspired by the resourcefulness of the local “Community Café” initiative — a gathering where surplus food from supermarkets is redistributed to those in need, accompanied by communal activities like bingo. In response to this spirit of care and sustainability, she began creating her own paper from discarded materials, printing her photographic works directly onto these handmade surfaces. Quyên also worked with the rehabilitative work activities -group in Ii, making Polaroid emulsion lift images.
Ii offered the perfect environment to slow down, reconnect with nature, and fully immerse in her creative process. Based in Berlin, the residency became a grounding and meaningful contrast to her fast-paced city life. She also bonded with her fellow resident Basti and they will continue working together.
Lê Quyên Nguyễns residency was part of the Northern Air network co-operation, in collaboration with the Second-Generation Cultural Embassy.