Artist Appreciation!

One of my favorite things about being an artist is getting to know other artists.  A couple years ago I had the distinct pleasure of getting to know Jiwon Shin, a graduate from The School of The Art Institute of Chicago in Illinois, USA and who now currently resides in Seoul, Korea.  Jiwon had such an inspiring presences that I felt it only fair to share her with the world!  After an short interview with Jiwon, I hope to leave you as inspired and bubbly as I do :o) Enjoy!

Where is a Favorite Place for you to Go?

Daegu, Korea

The 7^th Wave [Café], in front of my house. It is a really quite and cozy place to work by myself. Plus the Milk Tea over there is really really awesome!

Who is your Favorite Known, or Unknown Artist, Right Now?
Seung Hye Shin, she is a jewelry designer and my sister! I am a fan of her!!!

What do you Consider the Major Influence of Your Work?
My personality. My artworks  are very playful just like my personality.  When people see my artwork, they immediately say, 'Jiwon, it’s soooo you'.

J. Shin, 2010

What is your Favorite Art Materials to Work with?
Felt!!!! Love it! Very soothing process to me!

What is your Favorite Subject Matter? 
My favorite subject matter is my emotions.

What is your Favorite mode of Transportation and Why?

Subway in Seoul. It is really convenient, safe, and clean….. the best thing is No traffic! I am pretty sure you will be amazed by the subway in Korea! It is just amazing!

Seoul, Korea Metro Lines

Where is Your Favorite Place to Shop?
The second floor at Daeback Plaza in Daegu! Very close to my house. Plus there are many different brands I like.

What is your Favorite Smell? 
Apple smell!

Of All Your Travels, Where is your Favorite Place and Why?

Big Sky, Montana

Yellowstone National park. It is just BEAUTIFUL! There is no word to describe the beauty of Yellowstone National park. If I could, I would love to visit there at least twice during winter for snowboarding!

Where do you Make Art?
I usually make  art in the center where I currently work because there are a VARIETY of art materials I can freely use there!

What is your Profession?
Yesterday was the first day of Teaching about Family Art Therapy Theory.

The Crafters Corner: Holiday Special

As the Holidays approach and people consider shopping for loved ones, I want to share a few considerations:

Etsy: An website focused on handmade or vintage items.  These items cover a wide range including art, photography, clothing, jewelry, edibles, bath & beauty products, quilts, knick-knacks and toys.  Consider if Amazon and eBay had an artsy Love-Child. Etsy.com

Renegade Craft Fair: A free-to-attend event showcasing the handmade work and wares of independent craftspeople, artists and designers.  Today the Renegade Craft Fair events are held in five American cities: Chicago, Brooklyn, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Austin. renegadecraft.com

A Million Little Photographs (AMLP): Use one of their cameras to capture 27 frames on a single theme and then send in the result. An amazing gift for any friend who is a photographer at heart.  The collection will be a traveling exhibition that will trek from coast-to-coast.  arthousecoop.com/projects/amlp

School of the Art Institute: One of America's largest accredited independent schools of art and design located in Chicago, IL hosts an annual Holiday Art Sale.

Students have the opportunity to sell their work to the public and savvy shoppers can pick up unique holiday gifts and personal treasures.  Past sales have featured jewelry, paintings, sculpture, photography, prints, textiles, and handmade wares. www.saic.edu/life

Wheeler Ink:  Consider purchasing hand-painted holiday cards from an artist highlighted for her general creativity; as well as her sensitivity to color and design :o) MaiaMarieWheeler.etsy.com

Thanks for Checking In!

Maia