You were born in Korea and now live in the UK to work and study, how do you think both places have shaped you as an artist?
Through experiencing different cultures, I learnt a lot about diversity, which has expanded my perspective and contributed significantly to my growth as an artist. For instance, my love for oriental painting led me to explore the depth of oriental art while studying it in Korea. In Germany, where I lived before coming to the UK, I majored in graphic design, exposing me to a more contemporary and graphic expression that eventually led me down the path to becoming an illustrator. The enchanting natural landscapes of Germany also inspired me. Now, in the UK, I enjoy a more modern and creative experience, drawing inspiration from daily life, people, and the vibrant culture.
Did you have a creative childhood?
From a young age, I spent a significant amount of time creating. I particularly enjoyed drawing animals, and often I’d totally lose track of time through the creative process. Additionally, I loved making clothes for my cat using a sewing machine that my mum had provided. Although the clothes may not have been runway-worthy, they certainly helped keep my cat warm during winters!
Cats embody a unique duality
Though you describe yourself as an illustrator, you have a visual style that’s quite painterly. How did you arrive at your style?
Originally, my dream was to become a fine arts painter. Even when I went to Germany, my initial intention was to study fine arts. However, my growing interest in illustration changed that. Throughout my journey, I have always admired painters like Peter Doig, Nara Yoshitomo, and Valérie Favre.
How do you think other mediums might have influenced your practice as an illustrator?
Various forms of art, such as movies, literature, and traditional arts have played a significant role in shaping my visual language. I have a particular appreciation for filmmakers like Park Chan-wook, the music of Queen, the photography of Saul Leiter, and the writings of Hermann Hesse. While these artists may belong to different fields, they evoke specific emotions in me, guiding me in determining how I want to communicate with the world through my work. I’m also intrigued by the colour schemes and compositions used in opera and ballet performances, and London, being a city rich in such experiences, holds a special place in my heart.
I rely on intuition
Cats feature very prominently in your work, and you’ve said that you take inspiration from your cats, Gom and Arang. What do you think it is about them that you find so compelling?
Cats, especially my cat companions Gom and Arang, certainly play an important role in my work. I find their unpredictable behaviour, rich expressions, and warm hearts charming. Cats embody a unique duality. They are elegant, yet comical, relaxed, yet seemingly busy. Observing them is truly an enjoyable experience.
How do you know when something you’re working on is ‘finished’?
Personally, I rely on intuition. There are moments after drawing when I feel within myself that the artwork is ‘finished’. It’s usually when I can no longer identify any areas I want to modify, or anything I want to add to the piece. This feeling might take a week, or it could come after spending months or even years slowly working on a single piece. To maintain objectivity, I often try to step back and view the artwork with a fresh perspective.
What’s on the horizon for you in 2024?
In 2024, I am aiming to experiment with a more diverse range of media and styles. I want to gather experiences in various fields to express more themes and areas. Overall, my goal is to grow more than I did last year and to embrace a variety of creative endeavours.
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