We recently connected with Sharon Kim and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Sharon, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
The most meaningful project I’ve worked on as an artist is one where I aimed to capture the unique qualities of children with disabilities, particularly those with mental challenges, and express that these traits are not shortcomings but rather beautiful differences. Through my art, I want to show that each child is valuable and worthy just as they are.
This project is deeply personal to me because, as a mother of a child on the autism spectrum, I understand firsthand how lovable, adorable, and precious these children are. My goal is to help others see them through this same lens, to celebrate their uniqueness, and to foster a more inclusive perspective of beauty and worth.
Sharon, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m an artist with a deep passion for expressing the beauty in what many might see as “differences.” My journey into the art world began with a desire to communicate the unique qualities of individuals, particularly children with developmental disabilities. I strive to show that their characteristics are not deficiencies, but simply a different kind of beauty. This focus has grown from my personal experiences as a mother of a child with autism. I’ve come to appreciate how valuable, adorable, and worthy these children are, and through my work, I want others to see that as well.
The creative work I provide focuses on highlighting this theme, especially through art that showcases the value and dignity of children with disabilities. What sets me apart is that my art comes from a place of personal connection and understanding. I’m not just creating for the sake of beauty—I’m creating to inspire a shift in how we view diversity, to challenge perceptions, and to foster empathy.
What I’m most proud of is the impact my work has had on others. I’ve had the privilege of connecting with families, educators, and individuals who see their loved ones reflected in my art, and that has been incredibly rewarding. I want potential clients and followers to know that my work is all about celebrating the beauty in everyone and promoting a message of inclusivity, empathy, and love through art. My goal is to continue creating works that inspire others to see and appreciate the unique value of every individual.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
My life has been intertwined with art from a very young age. Drawing was always more than just an activity for me—it was a way to express my thoughts, release my emotions, and process everything going on in my heart and mind. It became my personal journal and, in many ways, a close friend. However, there was a period in my life where I had to step away from it. Life got busy, difficult, and painful, and I found myself unable to make time for art. The longer I stayed away, the heavier the burden felt, and I began to fear that I might never be able to pick up a brush again.
That time away from creating grew longer than I ever expected, and with it came a sense of apprehension. I wondered if I had lost my ability to express myself through art, or if I would ever have the courage to return to it. But eventually, a shift happened. I reached a point where I decided to push through the fear, pick up the brush, and start creating again. What I discovered in that moment was that the pain, struggles, and challenges I had faced during my time away had actually deepened my connection to my work. The weight of my life experiences didn’t hold me back—it infused my art with new meaning, depth, and power.
Now, the act of creating is more than just producing a piece of art—it is a process of healing for me. Every brushstroke, every line, becomes a way for me to reflect on and work through my journey. In a sense, my creative process has become my own personal recovery. And with each piece I create, I hope that others can connect to the same sense of hope, healing, and resilience that I’ve found. I believe that art has the ability to transcend the individual experience and offer something meaningful to others, and my hope is that my work can serve as a message of restoration and encouragement for those who encounter it.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My creative journey is driven by a deep desire to share a message of hope and healing with others through my work. I want my art to be more than just something to look at—I want it to resonate on a deeper level with those who encounter it, offering them a sense of recovery, strength, and encouragement.
One of the central themes in my work is inspired by children with developmental disabilities, particularly those on the autism spectrum. I focus on capturing their unique perspectives—the way they see the world, the beauty in their thoughts and actions, and the adorable qualities that often go unnoticed unless we look at them through eyes of love. At the same time, my work also acknowledges the misunderstandings, challenges, and societal prejudices they sometimes face. Through my art, I aim to reflect both the beauty and the struggles of their lives.
My hope is that my work can help change the narrative surrounding these children, presenting their stories in a way that is more approachable, relatable, and ultimately, beautiful. I want people to see them as the wonderful individuals they are, to understand their worth, and to embrace them with the same love and acceptance that I feel. By bringing their stories to life on the canvas, I hope to bridge the gap between them and the world, fostering greater understanding, empathy, and appreciation for their unique experiences.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://holyjoyla.wixsite.com/sharonkimart
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharon_kim_art
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sharon.kim.7921