Soo is a designer who illustrates!
She brings honest, passionate brands to life by being their creative partner and solve their problems through creative solutions.
“My background has been in fashion marketing and advertising and recently an Art Director at Revlon. At night, I illustrate to release my creative energy. You can find my illustrations on art prints, tote bags, home decor items and more
Do you want to see my love child? He is an extension of myself as a teddy bear named
When did you begin doing art and how did you get started?
Soo: I started to enjoy drawing when I was little and was fortunate to study in one of the best art schools in Seoul, Korea.
How do you get inspired?
Soo: For personal art – a feeling of a strong emotion sometimes triggers to draw and I start to imagine how I would want to express those feelings.
For client art – having a conversation and getting to understand their goal triggers ideas.
What is the process from start to final artwork, do you envision it from the beginning or is it a different process?
Soo: I definitely need to have a vision in mind – even though it’s rough. I do sometimes have to change direction due to unforeseen circumstances but I make sure my clients are comfortable with it before I make the change.
What techniques and resources did you use to design your last few pieces?
Soo: I’ve been interested in wall murals and window paintings as it’s different than drawing on paper or the computer which I have most of my career. I use a mix of house paint and acrylics, metallic ink. It’s been a fun challenge as I’m still learning all the tips and tricks to make it easier. I join Facebook groups for glaring questions but mostly, you just have to try it yourself and go through trial and error.
How has your work contributed to brand development?
Soo: I’ve studied communication design and worked as a designer for over a decade now so even though I create art, everything has to make sense to the brand I’m working for. Choosing colors, type, textures, etc all have to have a reason to create the right look and feel for the brand.
Describe a real-life situation that inspired your artwork?
Soo: When my father passed away, I didn’t know how to grieve as it was so sudden. In Korea, you send massive amounts of chrysanthemums to the funeral to show respect. My father had so many flowers delivered that the entire hallway filled up. I started to draw chrysanthemums in a way to remember him in my own way.
What artists influenced you the most and why?
Soo: When I was little, Dale Chihuly the glass sculptor was my favorite. His sculptures were so stunning and beautiful and loved how organic the glass pieces were. As I studied design, Milton Glaser’s work of art has inspired me to combine art with design.
Was there a time when you worked hard on a project but you received negative feedback from your manager or client? If you did what did you do?
Soo: Fortunately, I can’t think of a project that became a disaster. I did have difficult clients who changed their minds often and wasn’t sure what they wanted. It’s then usually my job to help them narrow down their options.
How has your art evolved over the years?
Soo: My style of art has not changed much, but I’m definitely using different mediums and surfaces to paint. I started painting on wine glasses and mugs, pouches and tote bags to challenge myself.
What is the best way to reach people that are interested in your art?
Soo: Posting on Instagram and Facebook with new art would be #1 and staying engaged within your community helps as well. I live in a great town where everyone is super supportive of small business owners to help each other out.
What is next for you?
Soo: I currently love the artistic work that I do so hopefully someday I will be able to be a full-time artist and designer.
To find out more about Soo and her art, please visit:
Website
Thank you!