Statement
My paintings are inspired by nature, memory, and the quiet connections that shape our lives. Through trees, light, Moon Jars, and landscapes, I explore themes of resilience, peace, belonging, and the relationship between people, nature, and culture.
I am especially drawn to ordinary moments that are often overlooked—a tree standing through changing seasons, sunlight filtering through branches, or the quiet presence of a Moon Jar. These simple subjects become symbols of endurance, comfort, and hope. I believe nature speaks without words, and I try to capture those quiet conversations on canvas.
As someone who was born in Korea and has lived in the Pacific Northwest for many years, I am also interested in the connections between cultures. The Moon Jar, a symbol of Korean heritage, appears throughout my work as a reminder that traditions, memories, and ideas continue to travel across time and distance. Some paintings explore these connections through today's digital world, while others reflect the physical movement of people, culture, and ideas between Korea and Seattle.
Working primarily in oil on canvas, I build layers of color and light to create a sense of warmth and stillness. My hope is that each painting invites viewers to pause, reflect, and experience a moment of peace. Through my work, I hope to share the quiet beauty I find in everyday life and to remind us that, despite distance and differences, we are all connected.
Bio
I was one of the few women studying engineering in South Korea in the 1970s, earning a B.A. in Avionics and a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering—a rare achievement at the time. In 1984, I moved to the United States, though I still don’t have a simple answer as to why. It’s a decision that can only be fully understood in the context of 1970s South Korea.
Settling in the Seattle area in 1985, I was fortunate to start my career in 1987 at Sundstrand, which later merged with Allied Signal and eventually became Honeywell. For 34 years, I worked as a design and software engineer in the aerospace industry. As an immigrant, life wasn’t always easy, and I worked hard to navigate my new world. After decades of dedication, I retired in 2021.
Art has been my refuge and passion. I first discovered painting about 20 years ago, at a time when I needed an emotional outlet. I had always enjoyed art in high school, but survival took precedence. As a divorced single mother raising a high school-aged son struggling with his identity, I found painting to be a form of mental therapy. Over time, it became more than just a creative escape—it became an essential part of my life.
Since retiring, I have fully immersed myself in my art. Over the past three years, I’ve spent most of my time painting, taking art classes to refine my skills, and seeking opportunities to connect with others through exhibitions and creative collaborations.
In 2006, I joined KAAW (Korean American Artists of Washington), and in 2008, I became a founding member of Harmony of Color, a group of artists who meet every Saturday to create, share ideas, and support one another. Through both individual and group exhibitions, I continue to explore and share my artistic journey.
