Danh Vo is a Vietnamese-Danish artist whose work explores themes of identity, migration, and cultural history through highly conceptual and thought-provoking pieces. Born in Vietnam in 1975, Vo and his family fled the country after the fall of Saigon, eventually settling in Denmark. This personal history of displacement, shaped by geopolitical forces and the search for belonging, deeply informs his artistic practice, which often questions traditional notions of nationality, memory, and the remnants of colonial influence.
Vo is known for his use of found objects—items charged with historical or cultural significance, such as fragments of statues, old letters, and furniture. These objects are re-contextualized in his installations, inviting viewers to consider how material items carry both personal and collective histories. One of his notable works, We the People (2010-2014), is a full-scale replica of the Statue of Liberty rendered in separate pieces and displayed in various locations. By disassembling this iconic American symbol and scattering its parts worldwide, Vo encourages reflection on the fragmented and often contradictory nature of national identity and the ideals it represents.
Another compelling work by Vo is his incorporation of personal documents and family heirlooms, particularly those of his father. In his piece 2.2.1861 (2009-2013), Vo replicates a letter written by Saint Théophane Vénard, a French missionary martyred in Vietnam. The letter is transcribed in calligraphy by Vo’s father, who doesn’t speak or write in French but participates in this re-enactment of history through his son’s direction. This work highlights the layers of translation, memory, and the crossing of cultural boundaries that define Vo’s experiences and artistic voice.
Vo’s work is deeply personal yet universal, urging viewers to confront the ways in which identities are constructed, influenced, and remembered. He often works with themes of power, religion, and the lingering effects of colonialism, unpacking how these forces intersect with intimate, individual experiences. Through his installations and sculptures, he offers a poignant commentary on the fluidity of identity and the remnants of history that shape contemporary life.
Vo’s exhibitions have been displayed in renowned institutions worldwide, including the Guggenheim Museum in New York, the Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris, and the National Gallery of Denmark. His works resonate deeply with audiences due to their blend of intellectual rigor and emotional depth, making him one of the most influential voices in contemporary art.
Designed in collaboration with BRIQ.