Thumy Phan

Hi!
My name’s Thu Mỹ Phan. Thu Mỹ is the traditional way to spell it in Vietnamese, I often go by Thumỹ or Thumy. You can refer to me with any of the 3 name spellings, I’m happy with them all!

I’m a Vietnam born illustrator, artist, muralist and designer currently based in Oklahoma City. I strive to tell stories with my work and bring these stories to life by utilizing bold colors and whimsical details. My personal work is heavily influenced by my family’s history and my own childhood memories and experiences of growing up in the US as a Vietnamese, immigrant, permanent resident raised in OKC. I draw inspiration from the phrase "We are the fruits of our mother's labor," both in reference to my mother and my mother land, Vietnam and often use imagery of fruits and flora taking root in my personal work to highlight those words. Through my art, I hope to challenge the passive stereotype thrown upon AANHPI women and reshape how society sees us.

As a child, I didn't see a future for myself as a successful artist in OKC. Now, I’m excited to be a part of the group of growing artists sharing what it looks like to be loudly and proudly AANHPI. I’m looking forward to challenging old beliefs and helping to shape new narratives in Oklahoma’s art community.

My free time is spent (ideally!) experiencing immersive art installations, watching Studio Ghibli movies and capturing moments on Instax. Coffee shops and plant gardens are my third places.