Insights from an Artist's Journey
Welcome to LNA's Creative Space
Explore the world of art through the eyes of Luna Nguyen, where creativity meets teaching and personal growth.
Artist Quotes That Inspire
“I paint flowers so they will not die.”
- Frida Kahlo
“You can’t sit around and wait for somebody to say who you are. You need to write it and paint it and do it.”
- Faith Ringgold
“Where I was born and where and how I have lived is unimportant. It is what I have done with where I have been that should be of interest.”
- Georgia O’Keeffe
“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.”
- Pablo Picasso
“I am seeking. I am striving. I am in it with all my heart.”
- Vincent van Gogh
“Creativity takes courage.”
- Henri Matisse
“When it comes to Art, we all speak the same language. Because Art is feeling, and Art is emotion.”
- Luna Nguyen
Words & Wisdom
Lost
Thursday, January 29, 2026
“To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die.” — Thomas Campbell
This month I said goodbye to a good friend, a role model, a wonderful human being. I couldn’t believe it. I couldn’t accept it. I refused to believe that she was going to leave this earth, and all of us. I was still hoping and praying for a miracle. But it happened. She left.
I could only accept the fact the moment I went to her funeral, where I said, “Sleep well, my friend. I love you!” I am sad, but at the same time, I feel empowered to carry on, to appreciate that I knew her and that she was part of my life. Here is a poem I wrote for her:
‘Muziek was altijd jouw grote liefde,
Ik herinner me nog jouw stralende stem,
Ritmes en liedjes die je maakte en me liet beluisteren.
Al voel ik je afwezig, je blijft – hier! – diep in mijn hart,
Nog steeds onhoud ik de herinneringen die we deelden.
Dagen vol kracht en trots dat ik je ken – draag ik met me mee.
Altijd blijf jij een bron van inspiratie, motivatie, en warmte.’
Resolution
Sunday, January 4, 2026
2025 felt like just six months to me. It was as if someone had taken half my time—without me noticing.
Then I realized: when you’re in the zone and truly enjoy what you do, time naturally flies.
At the same time, the older we get, the more aware we become, and the busier life feels. That also explains why time seems to pass faster than when we were kids.
My New Year’s resolution is to slow down, make space for myself, and do what I love—not just teach.
I know myself: when I start something, I give it my all. But I also know that giving my best doesn’t mean giving everything.
This year, I will focus on what matters most, while still allowing time for rest, for joy, and for the small moments that make life meaningful.
By honoring both my work and my well-being, I can live fully, love deeply, and move forward with purpose.
Bonifatiusspeld Almere prize
Wednesday, December 24, 2025
I am deeply grateful to have been nominated for the Bonifatiusspeld Almere prize by one of the parents of my students. Even though I didn’t win the prize, I truly feel like I already have. When I began my journey in art, I never imagined how far it would take me or how challenging the path would be. I never worked for recognition, only to share my passion, experience, and knowledge with others. This nomination means more than I can express and motivates me to become an even better teacher for all my students. Thank you for believing in me and voting for me. I cannot be the teacher who I am today without the support of my students and their parents. My heart is full, and I want to give back so much more.
A rewarding journey
Wednesday, December 24, 2025
I am truly grateful for having started my atelier, even with so much uncertainty about what lay ahead. I didn’t know exactly what I was getting into, but through hard work I improved my Dutch language, strengthened my teaching skills, and discovered many abilities I never knew I had, especially running a succesful business in a new country. During this holiday, while many are resting and enjoying Christmas, I find myself joyfully working on new programs for our art school – something I now proudly call it, with over 100 students and still growing. I feel deeply honored to guide so many young children, nurturing the future of the Netherlands, the place I now call home.
Moving
Tuesday, November 11, 2025
This month I moved into a new space – double the size of my old atelier. I still remember arriving at this building for the first time, two years ago, searching for a place to teach workshops and create more art. Back then, I knew almost no one. I began with just two students and my daughter. Now I have over a hundred students and fifteen volunteers who come weekly to support the atelier. The move was emotional; returning to the empty old space brought tears, each corner filled with memories. I said goodbye. But life evolves, and so do we. I promise to keep growing, improving, and making every space better than the last.
Vision
Tuesday, November 11, 2025
My vision for Luna Nguyen Atelier in Almere comes from my own journey, arriving in a new country, building a home through art, and finding a community one student at a time. I want LNA to be a welcoming space where everyone, no matter their background or experience, feels safe to create, grow, and discover themselves. I am building an art school that celebrates diversity, encourages curiosity, and supports people not only as artists but as human beings. Through fine arts, textiles, culinary, and creative writing, I hope to inspire connection, confidence, and purpose. LNA is my way of giving back by helping others discover their interests and master their skills.
Home sweet home
Monday, October 27, 2025
Returning home after more than a decade is bittersweet. The streets are familiar, yet some are wider; the people are the same, but everything else has changed. As an artist, I notice details others might miss: the colors, the light, the rhythms of life – and feel both inspired and strangely adrift. It’s hard to find what once belonged to you. The food is incredible, my parents cooking fills me with warmth. The longer I wander these streets, the more I realize how much I’ve grown. Home remains, but so does the artist I’ve become.
Dreams
Monday, October 27, 2025
Following your dreams requires courage, patience, and unwavering faith in yourself. Stay true to what lights your soul on fire, even when the path feels long or uncertain. Work tirelessly, day after day, refining your skills, learning from mistakes, and embracing every challenge as part of the journey. Don’t let doubt or fear derail you, persistence is what transforms vision into reality. Every small step counts, every effort matters. Keep your eyes on what you love, and trust the process. Success isn’t handed to you; they are earned. Keep going, keep creating, and make your dreams come true.
Reborn
Monday, September 1, 2025
The birth of an artist begins the moment you recognize that creating is not just something you do, but something you are. This month is my birth month and I feel reborn, as I take on a new chapter with my atelier: more students, more collaborators – which makes me feel more alive than ever. It’s an awakening that reminds me life expands when I follow my life purpose. To live as an artist is to move through the world with curiosity and courage, choosing meaning over perfection. Doing what I love is a gift, and honoring it shapes my life; it allows me to teach, inspire, and help many others to grow into the best version of themselves.
Growth
Monday, September 1, 2025
Staying focused becomes effortless when your success grows from the joy of what you do, not from chasing results. Passion sharpens attention, fuels discipline, and turns hard work into something deeply meaningful. This year has shown me the power of that mindset: from two students to one hundred in just two years. This incredible growth didn’t come from pressure or perfection, but from showing up every time with love, purpose, and commitment each day. Watching my atelier flourish is proof that when you follow what excites your heart, success follows naturally. And truly, this is the best birthday present I could give myself.
Talent isn’t what you’re born with, it’s something you build
Thursday, August 14, 2025
Talent isn’t something you’re just born with – it’s something you grow by being curious, showing up, and trying again. Skills come with time and practice, not perfection. Great things don’t happen all at once – they take patience, and that’s okay. What really matter is knowing what you enjoy and being open to learning. When you follow what interests you, everything starts to feel more fun and less like pressure. All you need is a willingness to explore. Keep going, stay curious, and trust the process. One small step at a time leads to something great.
Sometimes, all you need is to take a break
Thursday, August 14, 2025
In a world that moves fast and demands constant attention, taking a break to create something can be a powerful act of self-care. Stepping away from the noise allows space to reconnect with yourself and do what you truly love. Whether it’s painting, writing, crafting, or simply daydreaming, creative time isn’t wasted – it’s healing. It helps you slow down, breathe, and rediscover joy in the present moment. Creating for the sake of creating brings clarity, peace, and inspiration. Sometimes, the most meaningful progress happens when we pause, reflect, and follow what lights us up.
Why should one have a dream?
Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Why should one have a dream? Because a dream gives us direction – it’s the voice of the heart showing us who we truly are. As an artist and teacher, I’ve seen how even the smallest spark of a dream can light up someone’s life. It’s never too late to begin. Whether you’re six or sixty, or older, your passion deserves space to grow. Dreams aren’t just wishes, they’re seeds of purpose. They guide, inspire, and challenge us. I want my students – of all ages – to know: your dream matters. Let it shape your journey, and take one small step today. We begin here!
Creativity and what it means in our lives
Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Creativity is essential to our well-being, allowing us to express ourselves in unique and meaningful ways. Engaging in creative activities reduces stress, boosts confidence, and improves problem-solving skills. It opens our minds to new ideas and perspectives, supporting personal growth and resilience. Creativity also connects us with others, building empathy and a sense of community through shared experiences. Whether through art, writing, music, or other forms, it nurtures emotional health and inspires joy. It reminds us there’s no single right way to approach life.
More stories and tips on the way!
Wednesday, July 16, 2025
On this page, Luna will share her knowledge, experiences, and tips gathered over the past decades, along with the story of how she became an artist and art teacher. Stay tuned for more inspiring insights to come.
Stay Inspired with Luna Nguyen
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