We had the good fortune of connecting with Dan Nguyen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dan, what do you attribute your success to?
One of the simple, yet grounding principles that continually guide me in my life and my work is respect: self respect, respect for my craft, respect for my clients and practices. It might be hard for some to maintain personal or ethical values once they are challenged, backed by a large sum of money or award. I like to think that if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I have been drawing and creating art since I was an early child, and literally have not stopped since haha. What started as an all consuming passion, eventually transitioned into a full blown career. I didn’t have any formal training or schooling, but I had heaps of life experience and street smarts. I took that knowledge and jumped in the corporate world, diving into the creative advertising industry. At first my colleges were skeptical to receive me because of my lack of experinece, but as soon as we started working they clearly saw and appreciated my drive and work ethic. With one foot in the cultural underground and the other foot in corporate creative, I slowly climbed my way to the top of the mound. The whole time I was working in an agency, I didn’t stop grinding in the “streets”. I kept grinding – painting murals, having art exhibitions in high profile galleries and museums, getting booked and performing all over the world, throwing shows and parties along the way. The whole time I’ve learned – stay true to yourself, stand firm in your beliefs, protect yourself and others who can’t speak up.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Koreatown offers not only amazing Korean cuisine, but also bomb Latin food, and everything in between. Spots to look out for and try: Ktown Pho Slurpin’ Ramen Pollo a La Brasa Grain Cafe Sun Nong Dan Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a shoutout to those who believed in me – from my early years in the game to this current day. We are only as good as our environment, our village. They gave me a chance to reach my true potential.

Website: dan-nguyen.com

Instagram: @demonslayer__

Twitter: @dmnslyr

Facebook: facebook.com/dmnslyr

Other: soundcloud.com/demon-slayer

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