About Andy Nguyen
Andy Nguyen (born in Vietnam and raised in San Jose, California) is an emerging artist working in photography and installation. He received his BFA in photography from San José State University and completed his MFA in Spring 2026. Nguyen’s practice explores the intersection of visual storytelling and cultural identity, with photography serving as the foundation for his transition into installation work. His projects often document and reflect multicultural narratives, emphasizing community, memory, and lived experience. Deeply engaged in humanitarian and community-based initiatives, Nguyen has made meaningful contributions to the public sphere through both his artistic and civic efforts. His work has been recognized with several honors, including the 2024 AANHPI Commendation from the Milpitas City Council, and the 2025 Murphy and Cadogan Contemporary Art Award from the San Francisco Foundation. In 2025, he was also named one of eleven Vietnamese artists reaching global milestones by Viet Q Media, highlighting the growing international resonance of his work.
His passion photography spans over 15 years, and his dedication is captured through his documentation of personal narrative, community events, as well as cultural celebrations. Nguyen has made numerous contributions to his community and has received multiple awards for his dedication and involvement in Santa Clara County. He has been lauded for his documentation of underrepresented ethnic communities. His work has been exhibited at San José City Hall, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Library, SJSU Jo Farb Hernandez Gallery, San Jose City College Gallery, Evergreen Valley College Library, Works/San Jose Gallery, Vietnamese American Community Center, Mercury 20 Gallery, Bedford Gallery, and the CSU Chancellor’s Office; among others.
Recognizing the impact that art can have in humanity. Nguyen has exhibited in support of numerous humanitarian organizations, including the Friends of Hue Foundation Children Shelter in Vietnam, BeCause for Hope, International Children Assistance Network (ICAN), the Franciscan Charity, and the Help Kenyan Children Survive & Thrive, Inc. Nguyen’s chief goal is to continue to make a positive difference by connecting with people during community festivals and celebrations, school events, political events, and assorted community services projects, and chronically these meaningful events through his photography. By telling stories through his lens, he hopes to help generate resources to continue assisting vulnerable children, community members with special needs, locally and internationally.
Honor & Awards:
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2025 Murphy and Cadogan Contemporary Art Fellowship
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The Jim McEntee Legacy Fellowship 2015 & 2016
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Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Student Iconic Recognition 2016-2017
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San Jose State University, A.S. Advocacy Scholarship 2017-2018
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CSU Summer Arts Program Fellowship 2017 & 2018