We recently connected with Ji Eun Lim and have shared our conversation below.

Ji Eun, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

My journey as an artist began in childhood, where I found immense joy in painting and drawing during my preschool years. This early connection to art has remained a constant in my life. In middle school, my art teacher recognized my talent and encouraged me to pursue art college. I dedicated myself to honing my skills, preparing diligently for this path. This dedication led me to earn a Bachelor’s of Fine Art in design and my first Master’s in art education in Korea.

After completing my education, I taught visual art in middle and high schools in Korea. In 2017, I moved to the U.S. to further focus on visual art and deepen my understanding of art education. I earned my second Master’s in art education at the School of Visual Arts in NYC.

My artistic journey has been marked by a commitment to learning and growth. Despite the focus on art education in my studies, I have always maintained a strong passion for creating art. This drive has fueled my determination to explore and excel in the vibrant artistic community of NYC.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

In my artistic journey, I explore the beauty and complexity of geometric shapes, each infused with personal significance and narrative depth. “I play with my six geometric shapes!” embodies my creative ethos, reflecting a fusion of cultural influences, personal introspection, and a deep appreciation for the universal language of form.

Over several years, I meticulously crafted and refined six geometric shapes, drawing inspiration from the letters of my name in both Korean and English. These shapes transcend linguistic boundaries, manifesting as abstract yet evocative symbols. Visualizing each consonant and vowel as a geometric form, I blended them into cohesive artistic expressions.

Through simplification and abstraction, I imbue each shape with unique character and resonance, serving as the building blocks for my artistic expression. Within these forms lies a rich narrative, reflecting my innermost thoughts and experiences. As I arrange and configure them, I delve into my subconscious, exploring the interplay between form and meaning. These shapes resonate universally, inviting viewers to project their own interpretations onto the canvas.

I seek to uncover the beauty and harmony of existence, weaving threads of individuality and universality into vibrant visual expression. “I play with my six geometric shapes!” is a testament to the transformative power of creativity and imagination.

With a Master of Arts in Teaching, Art Education, from the School of Visual Arts in NYC, a Master of Education in Fine Arts Education from Kyung-hee University in Korea, and a Bachelor of Fine Art in Communication Design from Hong-ik University, I have pursued a career as an artist-educator. Prior to my studies in the United States, I dedicated five years to teaching visual arts and art history in a range of public schools and private art studios. My teaching philosophy aims to inspire students to explore my self-awareness through art. Since 2018, I have been teaching diverse art lessons that integrate multiple disciplines such as science, history, social studies, and other cultures, enriching the education of my students in New York City.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

As a visual artist, my aim is clear: to embody the essence of a “good” artist by upholding sincerity, love, and confidence in my art, enabling others to connect deeply with my creations. While the concept of a “good” artist is intricate and subjective, I find greater significance in being described as such than in labels like talented, professional, famous, or popular. I aspire to continue creating art ceaselessly, regardless of the challenges that may arise along my artistic journey.

I believe that my art has the power to inspire and positively influence others and the communities I engage with. As an artist-educator, I have the privilege of interacting with children, students, and community members, fostering harmony through my art programs.

One of my primary aspirations is to establish an art education organization that welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, providing them with opportunities to engage with diverse societal contexts, enrich their aesthetic perspectives, and broaden their horizons. This organization would offer a variety of programs, including international perspectives, art-making activities utilizing various mediums and techniques, and a diverse array of events and projects that blend art and culture.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the profound connection that emerges when a viewer resonates with my artwork, seeing themselves reflected in its narrative. This moment of recognition is deeply gratifying as it validates my artistic voice and underscores the transformative power of art to unify us through shared human experiences. Additionally, the immersive nature of my creative process, where I lose track of time while fully engrossed in painting, drawing, or crafting in my studio, offers its own sense of fulfillment and awe-inspiring moments of self-discovery.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.jieunlim.net
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jieunjieunlim/

Image Credits
The credits of All images, the artworks and personal photo, by Ji Eun Lim © Ji Eun Lim