We recently connected with Jean Oh and have shared our conversation below.
Jean, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
I first knew I wanted to pursue a creative and artistic path professionally from a very young age. At age 10, I discovered my love for painting and found immense fulfillment in expressing myself through art. This early passion continued to grow throughout my academic years. I immersed myself in art classes throughout middle and high school, where I honed my skills and explored different techniques and mediums.
My dedication to becoming a visual artist only deepened as I entered art college and later pursued my MFA in painting. During these formative years, I realized that painting was not just a joy for me, but a true calling. I became increasingly driven to use my art as a means of expression, to convey my thoughts, emotions, and philosophical perspectives to others.
My dream has always been to create art that resonates with people on a profound level, to evoke empathy, understanding, and connection through my work. Whether through vibrant colors, intricate brushstrokes, or thought-provoking themes, I aim to touch the hearts and minds of viewers and foster a deeper sense of humanity and compassion. Each experience, from my early beginnings to my extensive education in the arts, has reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career as a painter and sharing my creative vision with the world.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
My name is Jean Oh, and I am a painter. I believe that our lives are an ever-evolving tapestry woven from memories, experiences, relationships, and emotions. Each fragment, imperfect and transient, contributes to the mosaic of our existence. In my work, I strive to capture this dynamic nature by blending fabrics and paintings from different times and memories.
Emotions of longing, belonging, uncertainty, and inevitability often emerge from life’s everyday challenges and unexpected twists. These moments, too small to ignore yet too significant to overlook, are an integral part of the human experience. Instability becomes a recurring theme, woven into the fabric of each moment.
The phrase “Right around the corner” embodies the essence of anticipation and the unpredictable nature of life. While my work may initially appear to grapple with identifying the subject – often human shapes, faces, and body parts – a closer examination reveals familiar forms subtly emerging from layered, warm, and muted colors. Much like finding shapes in clouds or peering through dense fog, deciphering these images invites diverse interpretations.
By stitching together fragments of canvas fabrics and paintings, I introduce varied textures into my artwork, reflecting the complexity of my identity and personality. Through repetitive layering of materials and paints, I blur the boundaries between representation and abstraction. The resulting worn-out effect and dreamlike quality mirror the ever-changing nature of our lives, shaped by experiences and emotions.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
I believe that everyone, regardless of their creative background, can benefit from engaging with art and the creative process. Non-creatives may struggle to understand certain aspects of the creative journey, such as the depth of emotional expression or the complexities of artistic technique. However, by providing them with the opportunity to reflect, consider, and ponder about the world and our existence through art, we can broaden their experiences and foster a deeper appreciation for creativity.
Art has the power to evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and spark meaningful conversations. Non-creatives may find themselves drawn into this world of exploration and discovery, gaining insights into their own lives and the lives of others. By embracing open interpretation and allowing for contemplation, art can transcend boundaries and connect people from diverse backgrounds.
The creative journey is not limited to those directly involved in artistic pursuits. It is a journey of exploration and self-discovery that has the potential to enrich the lives of all who engage with it.
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
I draw inspiration from a diverse range of sources, including books, videos, essays, and other resources that explore philosophical themes and human behavior. I find that delving into topics such as confusion, absurdity, decisions, certainty, and the impact of emotions on our lives and identities enriches my management and entrepreneurial thinking.
Books play a significant role in shaping my philosophical perspective. I often immerse myself in literature that delves into these themes, exploring different perspectives and ideas. Whether it’s non-fiction works that delve into the intricacies of human psychology or fiction that offers allegorical insights into the human condition, each book leaves a lasting impression on my thinking and philosophy.
Sometimes, I find documentaries and videos to be a source of inspiration and reflection. Watching nature documentaries, for example, provides me with a fresh perspective on life’s complexities and the beauty of the natural world. Even seemingly unrelated content, such as videos showcasing the quirks of animal behavior, can serve as a source of inspiration and rejuvenation for my creative thinking.
My approach to seeking inspiration is eclectic and varied, reflecting my belief that diverse perspectives and experiences enrich my management and entrepreneurial thinking.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ohjean.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jean_____o/
Image Credits
Jean Oh