ARTIST
On Our WayFrom the series For Those Who Endure
Oil, latex, and joss paper on canvas
60 x 48"
2007
Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Chris and Susan Ausschnitt
Naples, FL
This image, painted on a collage of joss paper (handmade paper traditionally burned in prayer in Asian cultures), was inspired by the immigrant story. On their journey to America, my husband and his family traveled through the jungles of Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. During their escape from the Viet Cong, they encountered pirates and thieves, and were blessed to all have survived.
I created this piece while deeply considering our profound resistance as people. Two brothers, one carrying the other. They have experienced the wages of war. They have survived. And so they move forward. We all have triumphed over past afflictions, and with each trial, we recognize our resilience and our strength to move on.
Thirty Days
Diptych
Oil on canvas
48 x 48"
In 1975, my family found refuge on a Vietnamese naval ship while the Viet Cong invaded South Vietnam.
After weeks at sea, the engine of the ship broke down.
My grandfather, grandmother, and their children found themselves among hundreds of their fellow Vietnamese floating aimlessly at sea for thirty days before an American naval ship rescued them. To board the ship, one by one, they crawled across a ten-foot rope ladder on their hands and knees, suspending fifteen feet above the surface of the ocean.
As my mother recalls this life-altering event, she shares that although hundreds of people were in a potentially fatal situation, lacking food and water for an indefinite amount of time, the ambiance on the ship was celebratory and hopeful. Everyone was thankful to have had escaped from the turmoil in the beginning stages of the fall of Saigon.
This painting serves as an ode to my family, and those families who sought freedom, and acquired it through faith, hope, and their vision of a life of promise. The two panels represent their voyage from the East to the West, as the neutral green illustrates both land and water. The ten faces are those of my mother, my four aunts, and my five uncles, one of whom died before being introduced to the new land.
And There Is Light
Oil on canvas
54 x 54"
At times, it is easy for us to succumb to the negativity that the world may suggest, whether it be through circumstance, through the action of others, or through our own insecurities.
This painting is an illustration of the two worlds in which we may choose to live. Two houses stand side by side in the glowing light of dusk. One house is dark, rooted in fear, doubt, and complacency. The other house is built on the foundation of hope, illuminated by knowledge, faith, and confidence.
What Is To Come
From the series For Those Who Endure
Oil on canvas
60 x 48"
After my husband and I made the rightful decision to move to Florida, there were many forces attempting to keep us in California. This image derives from a time I observed him sitting in this position for a long moment in contemplation and, specifically, worry.
With much persistence, we materialized our vision of living in Naples. Originally, this painting captured what had been a pessimistic moment. Since we have begun our new lives here, and have experienced new growth and boundless opportunity, our perception of the painting has become one of hope and gratitude. Once a depiction of a doubtful man, head hung in despair, fear, and worry, now has become an image of a man filled with hope, head bowed in a prayer of thanks.
This piece holds a universal message: This, too, shall pass.
Among Us
Oil on canvas
54 x 54"
Collection of Mrs. Jamie Ross
Naples, FL
Beginning as an abstract representation of an interior (a painting studio in which I spent countless hours), this painting evolved into a window into the spiritual and subconscious world that influences my every vision. What started off as large windows soon became angelic figures, surrounding a central figure.
This painting serves as a reminder that throughout the times we feel that we no longer have the strength to keep our light illuminated, there are forces both visible and invisible that will protect, guide, and strengthen us. They are with us. And they understand our every need.
Abundance
Oil on canvas
36 x 48"
Collection of Mrs. Christine Hoang
San Francisco, CA
I find comfort in considering the abundance of this universe. As we sew a seed, we promote life. And as we nurture that seed, we assist this life in its development and growth. We, in turn, reap the seeds this life produces.
"A seed, dropped into the ground, springs into activity, and in the act of living produces a hundred more seeds, life, by living, multiplies itself. It is forever becoming more, it must do so, if it continues to be at all." -Wallace D. Wattles
From One To Another
Oil on canvas
36 x 96"
This piece was painted during a time I found struggle in trying to change my old ways. While my spirit knew who I wanted to become, and what I needed to do to become that person, my flesh had retained its old habits. And although I earnestly desired to change, I found myself being tempted back into the life of which I had grown weary.
What began as an expressive depiction of a scene from a battle between the two opposing sides (the flesh and the spirit), evolved into an image of two profiles facing each other. There emerged an accord between two beings. One profile, perhaps a self-portrait, is tiresome and intently gazes into the eyes of the other to consider, to listen, and to accept. The other profile represents a spirit accepting of, revealing to, and empathizing with the first. The gesture of this profile suggests influence, and instruction.
The title of the painting was renamed: Battle of the Flesh and the Spirit became From One to Another.
All the Space In Between
Oil on canvas
48 x 48"
I consistently marvel at the idea that I am a vessel for a spirit – a spirit that is one with God and God’s Universe. I think about the physical matter up of which I am made: the vital organs, cells, molecules, and atoms which collaborate so perfectly in forming the composition of my body, and I find it magnificent, that within this physical form lives a force who gives me life, guidance, and vision.
It is this emotional and spiritual material, the space in between all the physical material, which envelopes the essence of who I truly am.
Making a Life / Making a Living
Diptych
Oil and thread on canvas
36 x 48”
Collection of Mr. Khoi Mai
San Jose, CA
Upon decided to make a life creating art, I was faced with the pessimistic ideas of others that this dream was absurd and unattainable. I was reminded time and time again that the times were changing, and a change of heart would guarantee my survival in today’s world. With the strength of the Spirit, I had the strength to refuse to accept such notions.
I believe that success is not limited to monetary gain, nor is it dependent upon social or financial status. I believe that success is manifested within the dedication of one’s self to that which fulfills one’s heart. I believe that the monetary gain, which will follow, again becomes a means to manifesting more dreams.
Making a life has enlightened me with that which living truly is.
In the first piece, Making a Life, a figure leads the children as they reach into the truth and the light. In the second piece, Making a Living, a figure holds onto his/her material wealth, blinded by this secular perception of success and happiness.
For All the Blessings
Oil on canvas
48 x 48”
Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Hieu and Huy Mai
San Jose, CA
My family fled Vietnam during the fall of Saigon in 1975. In faith, they left their homeland in order to begin a new life in America, with the desire to give their future generations an opportunity to advance. Their sacrifice became our gain.
This painting is an expression of my gratitude for the creative, intellectual, and physical freedom I have experienced, and for the people and the country who allowed me this opportunity.
By Means of God
Oil on canvas
60 x 72"
I am always fascinated when my good friend Huda speaks with her mother in their native tongue. Arabic is a calming language, and its sound is described by the graceful movement of the written language itself.
Inspired by the gestural quality of Arabic calligraphy, this painting seeks to convey the message through the Spirit alone.
Above All Things The Courage Within
Vuot Qua Rao Can
(Beyond These Walls)
Oil, latex, and joss paper on canvas
48 x 60”
Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Jack and Claire Keery
Marco Island, FL
A young girl peers out from behind the wall. She knows there is much awaiting her.
This painting is about creating our own traditions, but at the same time, remembering our history and those places from where we have come. The red symbols abstractly spell out Vuot Cua Rao Can in a traditional Chinese stamp motif. These stamps represent the transition from one place to the next- as would stamps on postcards, letters, or passports. They say, “I am here”.
Oil on canvas
54 x 54”
When I consider the most valuable things to me in life, I find that all of them are visible only through faith- my love for God and people, my growing understanding with the Universe, and my recognition of the Omniscient Energy among all things living.
Under the blue skies lay large boulders, representing the physical and visible elements of the world. Above these boulders floats a glowing warmth, a warmth compelled by all good things internalized.
For All The Women
From the series For Those Who Endure
Oil, latex, and joss paper on canvas
60 x 48”
Human beings are the most adaptable, resilient, and powerful creatures, and among them are the women- the nurturers.
This painting was inspired by a survivor of domestic violence. For years having been bound by the insecurities of her abusive husband, a behavior which was accepted in her culture and religion, she made the rightful decision to leave and seek refuge in a local shelter.
A prayer to the women who have made a choice to better their lives, to the women who have yet to make that choice, and to the women who assist their fellow women in making that choice. The joss paper upon which the image is painted is a paper burnt in prayer in Asian culture.
Ha Long Bay
Oil on canvas
72 x 60”
Red sails guide a ship from east to west in Ha Long Bay, located in the northern region of Vietnam. The reflection in the water is clearly defined, as is the dream of opportunity in the new land.
Oil on canvas
60 x 48”
One of the most fascinating elements about abstract art is that who we are, being composed of all our experiences, will influence what we perceive.
Every red mark in my paintings is interpreted by my dear cousin as violence. This was an attempt to create a painting in which the red would obviously convey positive emotion, as red for me, has always represent power.The painting began as a still life of vibrant flowers. As it evolved, a feline portrait appeared, and confirmed once again, that what became of the painting, is what I had brought to it under the influence of my own experiences.
Feeding Her Joy
Oil on canvas
60 x 48”
My 80-year-old grandmother has several koi fish in her pond. She sits with them daily while eating her lunch and spends time with them while gardening. This painting captures a moment I spent feeding her koi fish, her pride and joy.
This image is both literal and metaphorical. As Ba Ngoai (Grandmother in Vietnamese) feeds her fish, they in turn feed her joy by simply living and being in her presence. The sense of elation is exchanged.
As I feed her koi, I am reminded that in nurturing others, I myself gain a sense of self-worth. By nurturing another, I myself grow.
Oil, latex, and joss paper on canvas 36 x 72" As I reflect upon my substance, I find that the answers will only come when I am willing to ask questions. Am I filling my self with constructive and harmonious intentions? And if so, how am I acting upon those intentions? An assembly of bottles congregate personifying humanity. The vessels stand tall and still, ready to be at service. Should they accept and assume responsibility, they become offerings to those in need. Amidst the vessels is a young boy, alone and destitute. He hides in his corner pulling wearily at his ragged garment Although both panels can visually and conceptually stand as individual statements, they collaborate to compose the idea of responsibility, compassion, and the strongest form of faith- love. “Let us not love in the word, neither in tongue, but in deed and in truth.” - I John 3:18 Even in the darkness he connects with light. 
I Am
Oil on canvas
60 x 72”
I am.
This statement is a confirmation of all that I am, all that I will become, and all that I have the potential to be. As I am made in the image of my Creator, in the same in kind, quality, and likeness, the only difference being one of degree, I recognize within me the Omniscient, the Omnipresent, and the Omnipotent. Through this knowledge I am empowered. I Am.
We Find Strength
Oil, latex, and joss paper on canvas
60 x 48”
Because koi fish swim against the stream, they symbolize strength in times of adversity.
In times of struggle, I learn to trust the subconscious and the spiritual, and realize the Infinite resources that I have available to me - these resources that are ever ready to lend themselves to a purposeful will, and therefore materialize my thoughts and desires into action, events and conditions which propel my growth.
Upon this recognition, I develop the Faith that is the “Substance of all things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen,” which provides me with the strength to overcome all obstacles that may appear in my path.
Let Us Be Vessels
Diptych
Even In Darkness
Oil, latex, and joss paper on canvas
60 x 72"
During the winter of 2006, my godmother sat at the dining table, practicing her Vietnamese calligraphy. With rice paper amassing upon the table, she patiently dipped her bamboo brush, one breath at a time, into the tray of rich black ink. Buong Xa Di. Buong Xa Di. Buong Xa Di. This phrase, written repeatedly, blanketed the lace of Grandmother's table cloth as I watched quietly.
Buong Xa Di is a poetic Vietnamese phrase describing an exhalation of all negative emotion or thought which hinders the Spirit from growth. Each release provides Faith with a more fertile environment to mature into its natural Abundance.
As man plays his melody, each inhale absorbs the Truth and Light, while each exhale releases every thought of dissolution, allowing every note to collaborate in a song of praise. The rhythm in which he breathes becomes the meter to which he plays his song.
In This Place
Pastel on paper
11 1/2 x 11 1/2" each panel
These intimate drawings describe events in my life that have brought me to where I am today.
Each drawing lead to the creation of the next, just as each event in life leads to another. In the development of this series, I allowed the elements of color, line, space, and movement to speak to one another, each mark responding to the next.
Upon completion of this series, I allow these elements to dialogue with one another, dictating the configuration of the narrative.
During The Silence I began this painting by adhering newspaper upon the canvas to represent “noise” - whether it be the noise of discouragement from outside forces or the noise of our own internal distractions. This noise was then silenced with a coat of white paint in order to set the foundation for the painting. The physical act of silencing this literal noise provided me with an environment within which I could meditate on my vision and receive my messages , and learn my lessons, while resolving the painting of which could possibly be a self portrait. A figure bows her head in reverence, the palms of her hands in position as she is ready to receive. In these moments of silence, I find my Spirit more susceptible to receiving the messages of the Spirit . Within This Place 
Oil , latex, joss paper on canvas
60” x 72”
Oil on canvas
60” x 72”
In Chinese and Japanese culture, koi fish symbolize abundance. Because they swim against the stream, koi also symbolize non-conformity and individualism. This painting is my expression of our beautiful world- a world abundant and diverse in culture, tradition, ethnicity, lifestyle, and personality. Collection of Ms. Huda Shah Dubai, United Arab Emirates Inspired by the Chinese labyrinth kufic (Arabic writing), this painting serves a visual prayer from the Qur’an, describing the vitality of pure faith. The prayer is read in a spiral movement, beginning from the upper right outer most edge and circling into the center of the piece. This gesture describes the importance of that movement into the center of the Self – where God meets us; that journey towards the core of who we are individually and who we are as a part of the whole – as a part of the Infinite and Universal Truth.
These fish represent us as individuals. Each has its own distinct color and marking. Each possesses unique traits and qualities. Each has its own path, but all live together in harmony, sharing a common environment.
Pure Faith
Oil on canvas
48 x 48”
They Have Been Sent (No. 20) Collection of Ms. Danielle Masseria Naples, FL During trying times, negativity sometimes finds its way into the crevices of the vulnerable mind. It will attempt to impress upon us the falsehoods that we are alone in our hardships, and that we alone must find our way out. I have learned continually in life that God and His graceful Universe will always see me through – both directly, and through those who have been willing to be vessels. These drawings illustrate the liberation I have experienced, time after time, from those dark corners out of which I never thought I could escape. The dark shapes are trapped within their own minds or in their circumstance, while the white shapes are ready to assist them to liberation. They are as seeds awaiting what growth may come. Joss paper, a paper burnt in prayer in Asian culture, serves as the foundation for these intimate drawings. An ode of gratitude to those who have believed in us during times of self-doubt, to those who have nurtured us during moments of weakness, and to those who have encouraged us to reconnect with the Light within when weariness seemed to have defeated.
Charcoal and joss paper on mat board
8 x 8”
Building This Bridge
Oil and joss paper on canvas
36 x 96" (diptych)
I have learned that from love grows the sincere desire to understand one another, as does the willingness to allow others into our world and see through our eyes. Love has taught me to replace judgment with empathy, insistence with tolerance, and apathy with compassion. Love yields the most fruitful harvest, and from this seed, we build bridges towering over all intolerance.
This intimate vignette reveals a couple striving to meet on a common spiritual plane, the swirling clouds illustrating the omnipresent Spirit. As he begins building their bridge, she waits patiently, ready to be of assistance. Upon great oaks, this bridge will allow them to connect at their center, to their Center.
“From little acorns, great oaks grow.” -German Proverb
Embedded into the painting is joss paper, a paper burned in prayer in Asian culture.
With treetops sheltering me, I wander through the grove in search of a site to create an environmental installation. I try peeling off a palm frond and weaving it into the tree trunk. I am unsuccessful. Perhaps I can dangle the vines from the thick branches above. I jump upon the ten-foot wall and make my way to the end of the brick ledge. Yes! A little niche presents itself – three perpendicular walls amidst the trees. I rejoice in discovering this perfect space in which to materialize my vision. Oh! I discover that I have already created an installation there… Streaming from one wall onto the next is an unblemished line of yellow leaves, standing side by side like soldiers prepared for whatever may come. The surrounding leaves are translucent – the majority of them white leaves, a few sporadic salmon leaves, all in communion to guard this sacred space. It is beautiful. It is my creation. And I am thankful. My moment is interrupted when a girl from below calls to me. She has something to show me. I jump off the wall, feet landing softly upon the ground. We hurry to the grove’s end. A broad beam of brilliant light shines through an aperture above, from which leaves fall generously. A young girl stands within the center of the light, waving her arms gracefully, summoning the leaves, and welcoming her blessings. Her bright eyes smile as her face bathes in the light of her Source. She gestures, “Yes. Come into this place.” The three walls of the niche are translated onto three canvases and also representing the sequence of the experience. On the first panel, the leaves (blessings) come. On the second, the hand reaches out, ready to receive. On the third, the elation upon acceptance of these gifts. I have often heard it said that one should not air his or her dirty laundry. When I think about all the stories that have uplifted, inspired, and have sustained my hope, I realize most have been stories which begin in loss, devastation and disappointment, later evolving into tales of perseverance, faith and triumph. When others share with me their stories of woe, they offer me a glimpse into their vulnerable worlds, reminding me that I am not alone in this trying situation in which I may find myself. I have learned that by sharing our tales of misfortune, we lend to others our empathy and our compassion, encouraging them to move forward in faith one breath at a time. In sharing our stories of struggle, we lend to others our wings. Our pure, unblemished, mended wings.
They Come To Me
Oil and joss paper on canvas
40 x 90" (triptych)
Dream documentation on November 20, 2007:
Take These Wings
Oil on canvas
40 x 60" (diptych)
Copyright Trinh Mai. All rights reserved.
