Eunju Park began experimenting drawing flowers on Korean traditional paper, Hanji, and now creates colorful and joyful art with a nod to her heritage.
How did you find yourself on an artist’s path?
After losing my dad to suicide, I found myself struggling with depression. A friend introduced me to the music of BTS and their positive lyrics became a source of comfort and inspiration for me during this difficult time. As I listened to their songs, particularly their question ‘What is your dream?’, I felt compelled to find my own dream and not let depression define my life.
I remembered enjoying painting with my children when they were younger. I decided to try ‘Paint by Numbers’, and I found the process to be incredibly therapeutic. Despite my initial belief that I couldn’t create, I discovered joy in replicating simple flower designs.
Encouraged by my progress, I began experimenting with drawing flowers from pictures, using Hanji (Korean traditional paper) as my canvas.With each piece I created, I found a sense of peace and healing.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Read more about our affiliate linking policy.
Inspired by the positivity of BTS’s music, I started incorporating uplifting messages in Korean into my artwork, using the Hanji as a medium for spreading hope and encouragement. Since 2021, I have been passionately pursuing my art, grateful for the transformative power of creativity in my life.
What do you do differently? What is your signature that makes your work stand out as yours?
What sets my artwork apart is my unique approach to using Hanji as the main medium. Traditionally, Hanji has been utilized for everyday items like window coverings, flooring, fans, furniture, wallpaper and even armor. However, I saw its potential beyond utility and decided to make it the focal point of my artistic expression.
By using Hanji as my primary canvas, I can manipulate its texture and showcase the inherent beauty of the paper itself. In doing so, I pay homage to its historical significance while infusing it with contemporary artistic vision. This approach not only distinguishes my work but also allows me to create pieces that resonate with viewers on a deeper level.
What inspires you to create?
I draw inspiration from the messages I want to convey in my art. Whether it’s uplifting affirmations like ‘I Believe in Myself’, ‘I Can Do It’, and ‘Resilience’ for personal empowerment, or comforting reminders such as ‘It Will Pass’, ‘You Are Doing Good’, and ‘It’s Okay’ for those facing hardships around me.
I’m constantly contemplating the next meaningful message to embed into my work. Each piece is infused with intention and compassion, serving as a beacon of hope and encouragement for both myself and others.
Do you plan your work out ahead of time, or do you just dive in with your materials and start playing?
I typically start with a word or phrase that inspires me. Once I have the concept in mind, I choose the shape of a canvas and design it on a piece of paper. Then, I select different colours of Hanji and begin gluing them onto the canvas.
Working across many different media, how do you organize all of your creative supplies?
When I first started my art journey, I had only a few colors of Hanji from Korea. However, as my passion for creating with Hanji grew, so did my collection of various kinds and colors. Now, I find myself faced with the challenge of organizing my expanding array of Hanji supplies.
What plays in the background while you work? Silence? Music, audiobooks, podcasts, movies? If so, what kind?
While I work, I typically have music playing in the background, often from BTS, my go-to choice. I also enjoy listening to indie rock and classical music, which set the mood for different stages of my creative process.
While I have a desire to read more books, I find it challenging to sit and read for long periods. Instead, I opt for audiobooks on topics like motivation, psychology, and novels. This allows me to absorb new ideas and stories while staying productive with my artwork.
How often do you start a new project? Do you work actively on more than one project at a time?
Working on one project at a time allows me to fully immerse myself in the creative process, eagerly diving in and eagerly anticipating the finished artwork.
Can you tell us about the inspiration and process of one of your works? How does a new work come about?
One of my most meaningful works, ‘It Will Pass’, was inspired by a follower on Instagram who was struggling with thoughts of suicide. I felt compelled to create something that could offer him hope and support during such a challenging time. Contemplating what message would resonate with him, I decided on the simple yet powerful phrase, ‘It Will Pass’. He expressed his gratitude and shared that whenever he felt overwhelmed or sad, he would look at the picture of the artwork and find solace.
Knowing that my art could make such a positive impact on someone’s life was incredibly humbling and reaffirmed the importance of spreading messages of hope and encouragement through my work.
Which part of the design process is your favorite? Which part is a challenge for you?
I find joy in every aspect of the design process, from selecting a meaningful message to designing the artwork, choosing different colours of Hanji, and meticulously tearing and gluing each piece. At this stage of my art journey, I haven’t encountered any particular challenges. I approach each project with an open mind, allowing my creativity to flow freely and focusing on enjoying the process. However, I do recognize the value in challenging myself to explore new techniques or themes, which could add depth and richness to my artistic practice. Perhaps it’s time to push my boundaries and embrace new creative challenges.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
Keep creating. You’re doing great.
How has your creativity evolved over the years?
Over the past three years since I began my journey with Hanji art, I’ve noticed a significant evolution in my creativity.
Initially, my pieces were simpler, reflecting my early exploration of the medium. However, with each new artwork, I’ve embraced the opportunity to experiment with different techniques, textures, and color schemes. This continuous exploration and growth have led to a noticeable transformation in my art. I’m excited about the progress I’ve made so far, and I eagerly anticipate the possibilities of what I’ll create in the next 10 or 20 years.
What do you do to keep yourself motivated and interested in your work?
I don’t think I need to make myself motivated as I am having so much fun creating, showing my work, and connecting with so many people. I just need to manage my time wiser so I can do all of these things more.
Do you lecture or teach workshops? How can students/organizers get in touch with you to schedule an event?
I do host workshops at various locations, where I teach Korean letters and guide students in designing and creating their own artwork based on a word of their choice. My workshops are open to anyone interested in experiencing this unique art form, regardless of skill level. I regularly post workshop information and updates on my social media platforms. Additionally, I am currently working on my website, where workshop details will be available once it is ready.
Where can people see your work?
Art Gallery of St. Albert, St. Albert, AB
Boxcar Cafe – Hanji mural and pieces Address: 11926 129 Ave, Edmonton, AB
Liberta Coffee Lab Gallery – Solo exhibition (Apr 6-17th) Address: 6547 99 St, Edmonton, AB
My Instagram is www.instagram.com/kartbyjuju
Interview posted April 2024
Browse through more inspiring creative interviews on Create Whimsy.