Meet Inside Outside, Upside Down artist Jean Jinho Kim
Exhibitions & Events
Sherman Fairchild Curatorial Intern Oscar Flores-Montero speaks with Juried Invitational Inside Outside, Upside Down artist Jean Jinho Kim about her practice.
![Photo of Jinho Kim](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_1360px_/public/featured_images/Screen-Shot-2021-08-27-at-10.38.13-AM-e1630101747254.png?itok=7AWM8iL5)
Jean Jinho Kim, Courtesy of the artist
Oscar Flores-Montero: How did you know you were an artist? At what age did you start creating?
Jean Kim: I think being exposed to art at a young age has inspired me to become an artist. I started creating art in first grade. After that, I started to take art lessons and competed in art competitions as a child and never stopped painting or making art since then. It wasn’t until I was in highschool that I decided to pursue art as a career.
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Jean Jinho Kim, Standing Tall, 2021, Aluminum tubing and wooden probes with base, Courtesy of the artist, on view in the Inside Outside, Upside Down galleries
OFM: What does a typical studio day look like for you?
JK: I spend the day sketching out concept designs and use wire and playdough to create a miniature model. When I am fabricating the pieces, I am usually outdoors. I do a lot of research on the computer for different ideas and approaches.
OFM: Material choice is very intentional in your practice. What inspired your material choice for Standing Tall?
JK: Standing Tall is the first piece that I created in aluminum. This is because of the durable nature of aluminum in comparison to downspout. It is wind resistant and lasts longer outdoors. I wanted to be mindful of where my pieces were being exhibited during the pandemic so that people can enjoy the art without worry and to brighten people’s hearts.
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Outdoor installation view of Kim's work, Courtesy of the artist
OFM: Did the pandemic affect your approach to creating art? If so, how?
JK: Before the pandemic, much of my art was designed for indoor exhibition. Many galleries, artists, and audiences were left in isolation. I shifted my focus from indoor to outdoor and my approach and materials used changed naturally. I love playful colors and wanted to provide a space and a moment to enjoy without worry.