Water is omnipresent, making up a significant part of our bodies and surrounding us in rivers and oceans. However, when it becomes turbulent and seeps into every aspect of our lives, the quality of life is severely impacted.

Born in Đà Nẵng, Quế moved to Saigon for work and lived near the Nhiêu Lộc-Thị Nghè canal in Bình Thạnh district. The severe pollution in the canal sparked his interest in the relationship between water and the lives of locals, leading him to explore themes of memory, history, labor conditions, and urbanization in his art.

A glimpse into Quế's life reveals his fascination with the human experience and the environment, as seen in his photographs and artistic expressions.

One of Quế's installations, 'Water permeates through the divine,' features a fish tank filled with water and mud from the Nhiêu Lộc-Thị Nghè canal. The tank glows in a dark space, with particles drifting and separating under a green light, creating a paradox of beauty and toxicity.

The installation 'Water permeates through the divine' is a thought-provoking piece that showcases Quế's ability to transform ordinary objects into extraordinary works of art, using materials like glass, mud, and water.

In contrast, 'Into purified water' is a video work that explores the migration and labor histories of Vietnamese communities in Germany. The clear water in the video serves as a backdrop for animated ants, raising questions about the cost of pursuing a better life in a foreign land.

The video 'Into purified water' is a single-channel work that runs for 3 minutes and 30 seconds, inviting viewers to reflect on the complexities of migration and the pursuit of a better life.

Quế's interest in water extends beyond the environment, exploring the human body as a site of inheritance. He reflects on how the children growing up near the polluted canal are affected by their surroundings, both physically and mentally.

The series 'Elles' is a poignant exploration of personal memories and inherited trauma. In one video installation, Quế lies still as water drips onto his head, evoking the physical and psychological pain that can be passed down through generations.

The 'Elles' series is a powerful expression of Quế's personal experiences and emotions, using the human body as a medium to convey the weight of memory and trauma.

Quế's animated films offer a unique perspective on Vietnamese history and culture. By using non-human characters like mosquitoes and ants, he explores themes of trauma, memory, and environmental disaster.

In 'Healthy diseases with water,' a mosquito and a ghostly French monologue come together to tell a story of trauma and history that is both haunting and thought-provoking.

Film stills from 'Healthy diseases with water' provide a glimpse into Quế's creative process and his ability to craft compelling narratives that explore the human condition.

The animated film 'The ant and the rice grain' is a reinterpretation of a classic Vietnamese tale. Quế's version follows a small ant as it navigates a storm and flood, highlighting the struggles of Vietnamese people against environmental catastrophe.

Film stills from 'The ant and the rice grain' showcase Quế's attention to detail and his ability to craft a narrative that is both personal and universal.

The installation 'Water, Ant, and Rice Grain' is a collaborative work that brings together Quế's artistic vision with the creative input of others. The result is a thought-provoking piece that explores the relationship between water, nature, and human experience.

Quế's use of mosquitoes and ants as main characters in his films serves as a powerful metaphor for the human condition. These creatures are often seen as insignificant, yet they are capable of carrying immense weight and trauma.

The open studio 'Nature on the roof' is a testament to Quế's ability to collaborate with others and create something truly unique. The result is a thought-provoking exploration of the natural world and our place within it.

Water is a complex and multifaceted element that can be both beautiful and destructive. Quế's works highlight the need to navigate this complexity and to find ways to sustain our lives in the face of environmental instability and social inequality.

Through his art, Quế invites us to reflect on the power dynamics at play in our world and the slow violence that can have a profound impact on our lives. His works serve as a reminder of the need to be mindful of our cultural norms and the changing landscapes that surround us.

Quế's artistic journey is a testament to the human spirit and our ability to create something meaningful in the face of adversity. His works serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of exploring our memories, histories, and experiences.

The photographs of Quế's works, courtesy of the artist himself, provide a glimpse into his creative process and the world he has crafted through his art.