Duong Minh Duc

FINDING CREATIVE IDENTITY THROUGH THE LENS OF ART – DUONG MINH DUC

For many, artistic identity isn’t found at the starting line. For Duong Minh Duc, an alumnus of the Contemporary Creative Practice programme, the path to self-discovery was paved with constant experimentation. It was through exploring different creative forms - moving across graphic design, photography, animation, and sound during his early years at BUV- that he discovered his true calling: visual storytelling, which ultimately led him to pursue a career in illustration.

Ten pages to explore a question of identity

His interdisciplinary knowledge and skill set were clearly reflected in his graduation project, which aimed to enhance the user experience of traditional comics. Duc crafted a sensory narrative centred around two characters, Stereo and Speaker, who embark on a journey through the forest to collect sounds. What initially appears to be scattered noises gradually swells into a harmonious symphony.

With this project becoming a highlight in his personal portfolio, Duc was given the open doors to participate in the Comic Masterclass – a comic creation workshop organised by the Institut Francais and Kim Dong Publishing House. Out of 58 nationwide applicants, Duc was one of only 12 emerging talents selected to train under industry icons like Clément Baloup, Nguyen Thanh Phong, Ta Huy Long, Maxime Péroz, and Eddy Coubeaux.

The challenge for each participant was to create a 10-page comic project based on the theme “The Animal Within Me.” Instead of choosing a familiar animal, Duc created a fictional creature assembled from multiple species. The story follows this character on a journey to discover its own identity amid the many influences and experiences of life, ending with an open conclusion that invites readers to find their own interpretation. This work was later featured in the anthology Nguoi Trong Muon Loai, with his character even gracing the cover, illustrated by the legendary Ta Huy Long.

Experimentation as a creative compass

Reflecting on his journey, Duc encourages young creatives to experiment, engage with creative communities, and start creating rather than waiting for perfection. In the world of art, success lies not at the destination but in the continuous process of learning, experimenting, and gradually finding a voice that is uniquely your own.

Every creative journey is shaped by different experiments, ideas, and milestones. If you would like to share yours, send your story to us at alumnirelations@buv.edu.vn.