We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful AJ Lindstrom-Oye. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with AJ below.
AJ, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
I didn’t find my purpose all at once – it unfolded through experiences that shaped me from a young age. I’m adopted from South Korea, and my parents divorced when I was two. My sister and I had a challenging childhood, growing up with very little, alongside emotional and parental instability. Those early experiences created a deep desire for stability and security, which drove me to put myself through college, attending nights and weekends while working full-time to earn my B.A. in Finance.
With that determination, I built a career in tech and a corporate setting, chasing the stability and success that I thought would bring me fulfillment and happiness. But over time, the pressure and demands took their toll, and I found myself burned out, and feeling disconnected from who I truly was. Balancing the responsibilities of raising kids and supporting life with its high-demands, only amplified that sense of loss within myself.
That’s when I turned to painting and intuitive work – not just as an escape but as a form of self-care and healing. Both art and developing my intuition became ways to process, express, and ground myself. Allowing me to feel like I was back in my body, and not floating around. Over time, I realized my purpose isn’t just about creating; it’s about holding space for myself and others to reflect, feel, and find clarity.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
My work is a reflection of my journey that began at a young age. Creativity has always been a part of me as it is natural way to process and release emotions. However, life’s demands often forced me to set it aside. Growing up in an unstable environment, I found myself searching for security, safety, and ultimately, self-love. That search led me down many different paths, but art and my imagination remained a quiet undercurrent, something I always returned to when I needed to feel grounded.
Now, I see my work as a thoughtful blend of intuitive art and personal expression. Through my paintings, I explore different emotions, energy, and movement, allowing for a deeper connection to my pieces. It’s meant to be expansive, inviting viewers to find their own reflections and emotions within its textures, colors, and layers. By fully embracing my creativity, I’ve not only reconnected with a part of myself that was once muted, but my hope is that my work resonates with people on a personal level, sparking moments of introspection, healing, and connection.
The other side of my work is intuitive tarot readings. I love doing sessions and the deep connections they reach, where I offer grounding, insight, and clarity for people. Whether through art or intuitive work, my goal is the same: to create a space for reflection and help others gain a deeper understanding of themselves. To be present, in their bodies, and release things that are not serving them.
Right now, I’m embracing growth in both areas. Artistically, I’m focused on sharing more of my work and leaning into the vulnerability that comes with that. I recently completed Glitch, a 36 x 36 acrylic on canvas that explores disruption and the beauty within imperfection. On the intuitive side, I love offering in-person and remote sessions. A few Saturday nights each month, you can find me at Milly’s Wine Bar and Bistro in Minneapolis, a cozy and chic space with a friendly, incredibly welcoming team. It’s the perfect place to unwind with a glass of wine while receiving a mini intuitive reading in an intimate, inviting setting. Starting in March 2025, I’ll also be offering sessions at Tula Organic Spa and Shop, a serene, holistic space designed for relaxation and self-care. An ideal setting for deeper, personalized intuitive work.
Additionally, I’ve partnered with LINC Permanent Jewelry to bring something truly special to private events. Together, we help clients choose a wearable piece that reflects their session. It becomes more than just an accessory, it’s a personal symbol of their intentions and manifestations.
At the heart of everything I do though, whether through art or intuitive guidance, is the intention to create spaces where people feel seen, supported, and inspired. I cannot express how much I love my work and who it’s allowing me to be.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, I think three qualities that were most impactful in my journey were resilience, intuition, and the ability to embrace vulnerability.
Resilience has been key. Like many of us, I faced challenges from a young age into adulthood and had to adapt, overcome, and keep moving forward, even when things were difficult. It’s this perseverance that has allowed me to transition from a corporate career to pursuing art and my intuitive work.
Intuition has always been a guiding force for me. Whether in art or readings, trusting my gut and staying open to subtle energies has helped me create meaningful connections and insights. I’d encourage anyone on a similar path to spend time developing their intuition, whether through meditation, journaling, or simply allowing space for quiet reflection.
Lastly, embracing vulnerability has been incredibly freeing. It’s not always easy to put myself out there – whether through my art or in offering intuitive sessions, but it’s through that vulnerability that I’ve found deeper connections with others and myself. I’d encourage anyone early in their journey to not be afraid to be authentic, even when it feels uncomfortable. The more you embrace your true self, the more your work will resonate with others.
For those just starting out, I would work towards building resilience by practicing self-compassion and patience. Trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. And most importantly, don’t let fear hold you back from showing up as you are – vulnerability is where true growth happens.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
Yes, I’m always open to partnerships and collaborations, especially those that create meaningful, enriching experiences for others. I love working with individuals, businesses, and brands that value creativity, personal growth, and authentic connection. Whether it’s hosting intuitive sessions at events, collaborating with other artists, wellness spaces and businesses like I’ve done with Milly’s Wine Bar and Bistro, LINC Permanent Jewelry, and Tula Organic Spa and Shop, I’m excited by opportunities that align with my work in art and intuitive guidance.
If you’re interested in collaborating, whether for private events, creative projects, or unique offerings, you can connect with me through Instagram @ghlartistry or email at [email protected]. I’d love to hear your ideas and explore how we can create something special together.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ghl-artistry.square.site
- Instagram: @ghlartistry
Image Credits
GM Design Consultancy Valentina Giacomelli McCachren https://www.instagram.com/gmdesignconsultancy/
