We were lucky to catch up with Ana Kim recently and have shared our conversation below.
Ana, thank you so much for joining us. You are such a positive person and it’s something we really admire and so we wanted to start by asking you where you think your optimism comes from?
Embracing the life of a full-time artist comes with its share of challenges and moments of solitude. Nevertheless, it also grants me the autonomy to work for myself and shape my own path. I find profound satisfaction in meticulously planning my artworks, bringing them to life, and showcasing them to the world. Devoting my work hours to draw inspiration from my daily experiences enriches both my creations and my outlook on life.
This lifestyle, built upon my preferences and interests, molds me into an optimistic individual. The ability to craft my own narrative as an artist fuels my positive perspective, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth and self-expression.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am an artist and the owner of a small business centered around my artwork. My repertoire includes original art pieces as well as printed art products derived from my digital creations.
As a small business owner, I create images that could be attractive in daily life, mostly using digital art. With about 5 years of experience as an artist who paints animals and nature with the theme of protecting their lives, I established my business in 2023, naming it AK Art Studio. The purpose is to present my artwork in different forms, making them more affordable for audiences who want to own my artworks. My business is growing well, allowing me to connect with more audiences/clients who can provide feedback from different perspectives. My art products can be easily found on my Etsy store – AnaKimArtStudio.etsy.com – and occasionally at local art events in the Chicago area.
As a fine artist, I place value on creating pieces that are irreplaceable. With textures, colors, and brushstrokes that I can uniquely express, I create my art by using and mixing different mediums over the layers on my surfaces. Recently, I have been attempting to create pieces that are not only attractive but also relieving at first sight. My images are crafted from minimal subjects but undergo a full number of processes on the layers. My works are updated quickly through my Instagram – @anakim_art – and all the links are also updated through my Instagram account.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, I believe three qualities have profoundly impacted my journey as an artist: my positive mindset, cultural influences from my background, and the refusal to limit myself. Firstly, as a creator aiming to convey messages through my unique perspective, I encounter differing viewpoints. Despite this, I maintain a positive mindset, avoiding negativity and persistently working towards creating the art I envision. This optimistic approach has been instrumental in sustaining my artistic journey. Secondly, being a Korean-born individual studying and living in the United States, I identify myself as someone bridging the gap between Korean and American cultures. This cultural fusion adds depth and richness to my artistic expressions. Thirdly, I actively engage in diverse pursuits, refusing to confine myself. Whether it’s learning new languages, acquiring certifications in other fields, or embracing new sports, I believe in the value of broadening my experiences. While seemingly unrelated to art, these endeavors bring unique influences and expand my perspective.
Embarking on the path of an independent artist can be challenging and solitary. Nevertheless, I advise aspiring artists to remind themselves to create art with a personal message and immerse themselves in their work. Achieving goals may take time, even if they are short-term, but continuous dedication to art will yield results. Connecting with fellow artists, investing time not only in creating art but also in gaining diverse influences, is crucial for growth. The journey is as important as the destination, so embrace it fully.
How would you spend the next decade if you somehow knew that it was your last?
I am currently challenging myself by exploring two distinct artistic directions simultaneously – one as an abstract artist and the other as an animal artist/small business owner. I refer to this process as inventing another version of myself, allowing each personality to engage with a different artistic theme. While this approach may seem unconventional, it serves as my way of avoiding self-limitation, enabling me to create more diverse art and connect with a broader audience.
However, this endeavor comes with its challenges. Balancing these two creative paths requires additional effort, and not all audiences may resonate with my dual focus. As a result, finding a harmonious balance that allows me to exert my best effort becomes a key challenge. Despite the hurdles, I am determined to navigate this creative journey, embracing the challenge as an opportunity for personal and artistic growth.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.anakimart.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/anakim_art
- Other: www.instagram.com/anakimartstudio
Image Credits
Ana Kim.
