ARTIST STATEMENT
I paint multicolored animals in vibrant scenes through my series “Animalscaping,” a fusion of “animal-scape” and “ing,” representing my exploration of a world beyond reality. My art aims to evoke new emotions and transport viewers to an unreal realm. As a passionate animal rights activist, the placement of animals in my paintings responds to environmental and societal challenges. My works prompt questions about pressing issues, challenging viewers to consider art’s role in addressing problems like environmental degradation. Through my art, I convey a message about critical societal issues demanding attention and action. I strive to motivate viewers to engage with current environmental concerns. The interpretive nature of art allows individuals to derive meanings based on their cultural backgrounds. Despite varied interpretations, a common awareness emerges: the animals in my paintings are under threat. Recognizing the perilous situation of wildlife is crucial for transitioning from conflict to coexistence, as human actions endanger these species. My color palette is a mix stored in containers, with each combination selected to evoke tranquility. Engaging in simultaneous work on multiple paintings, I infuse passion by transitioning between canvases. I use layering techniques with various mediums, representing my commitment to authenticity. My artistic journey challenges conventional boundaries, prompting audiences to reimagine their perspectives and take action on environmental issues, striving to evoke positive emotions and inviting contemplation.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Ana Kim (b. 1995, South Korea) is an individual artist. She received her BFA from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2018. Since then, she has been working as a full-time artist with studios based in two cities- Seoul and Chicago. She is now working in Chicago, IL. Not only within South Korea and the United States, but her works have also been presented on international platforms in France, Germany, Japan, and England. Ana also engaged in many art projects, including projects with the Korean government, residencies, and publications.
In 2023, Ana took a bold step by launching her own art business — Ana Kim Art Studio. With a passion for pushing creative boundaries, she explores a diverse range of artistic expressions commercially.
© Ana Kim