Meet Soo Kim

We recently connected with Soo Kim and have shared our conversation below.

Soo, 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.
Discovering alcohol inks has been a transformative journey for me, unlocking a purpose I never knew I was searching for. Despite studying art and design throughout my career, it wasn’t until I immersed myself in this unique medium that I truly understood its therapeutic power.

Throughout the challenges of the pandemic, creating with alcohol inks became my sanctuary, which saved me in more ways than one. The benefits of this medium are profound, and the soothing nature of the process has become an integral part of my creative expression.

Alcohol ink art involves delicately pouring vibrant inks mixed with rubbing alcohol onto a non-porous surface. Guiding these inks allows for a dance of colors, creating mesmerizing layers that come alive as they dry. The result is a burst of vibrant hues and intricate compositions that reflect the fluidity of the creative process.

The magic lies in letting go while gently guiding the inks, allowing them to form beautiful compositions organically.

This medium has become more than a creative outlet; it’s a therapeutic practice that has become an integral part of my life, helping me navigate challenges, express emotions, and find joy in creating.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I’ve dedicated my life to the art industry, attending private art schools and eventually becoming an art director working for Revlon. However, when the pandemic hit, I found myself in need of a source of escape. That’s when I discovered alcohol inks.

I instantly fell in love with the soothing flow of inks, blending colors to create beautiful layers. In this process, I found relief and a renewed sense of hope. The expressive quality of alcohol inks offered me a unique form of communication and emotional release that I couldn’t find anywhere else.

Through this unexpected encounter, I realized the profound power of healing through art. It became more than a creative outlet; it became a therapeutic journey. Art, especially with the transformative nature of alcohol inks, has become a place to heal, relax, and rediscover the endless potential of self-expression.

I host sip and ink workshops in my Glen Rock, NJ studio, as I would love more people to experience the therapeutic power of creating with alcohol inks.

With my fine arts and design background, I host weekly art classes for kids to expand their creative minds!

I also create custom artwork for homes. I love working with my clients to create a special piece just for their homes that reflects their personality and style.

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?
I have to thank my parents for sending me to a private school for fine arts at a young age, as that had set my career from the get-go. The school not only honed my artistic skills but instilled in me a sense of resilience. It pushed me to explore various mediums, from photography and clay working to watercolors, graphic design, and so much more. The diversity of skills I acquired became the foundation of my artistic identity

I am still a student trying to learn throughout my career. Overcoming self-doubt has been a crucial lesson. Trying something new can be daunting, but the mantra of ‘just do it’ has been my guiding light. It’s a reminder that growth often happens outside our comfort zones.

What would you advise – going all in on your strengths or investing on areas where you aren’t as strong to be more well-rounded?
As an entrepreneur and artist, I’ve come to realize the importance of mastering the art of business growth. Constantly seeking ways to enhance my skills, I’m focused on learning how to optimize my website, secure more exhibition opportunities, and improve communication with my audience. Additionally, my ongoing commitment involves creating a soulful collection that resonates with authenticity.

Navigating the dual roles of an artist and entrepreneur poses challenges, especially considering the introverted nature of many artists, a trait I experience myself. However, acknowledging my visibility is crucial, and I’ve learned to step out of my comfort zone. My work might go unnoticed if I don’t actively engage with my audience. I firmly believe that art has the power to heal souls, and my mission is to share this transformative experience with a broader audience. By doing so, I hope to bring more joy and tranquility into people’s lives through soothing art.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
@boshimphoto Bo Shim Photography

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