Today we’d like to introduce you to Julia Yoon.
Julia, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
Since my mom was an art teacher when I was young, I played with the brushes and leftover papers that she used for her art class, so art was always a part of my life. It healed me when I was having hard times and brought me in the ability to create something visually beautiful.
I grew up in South Korea for my entire life before I came to the USA. Due to my childhood and growing up in Asia, I was affected by a lot of Japanese art and Korean traditional art. Japanese and Korean art is based on using the brush line to draw objects. I love drawing line works and putting colors on top of it. I think layering colors in this way gives the art it’s depth. I am mostly using watercolors and pencil to create my illustrations. I still appreciate the simple harmony that can be found by drawing in real paper with a real pencil. The texture and the sound of drawing on the paper make me calm and concentrated to create art. Whenever I put watermarks with watercolor after I finish the line work, I feel a sense of nature in my drawing. By adding colors and unexpected watermarks my art feels more alive and breathing. All the organic textures and creations from unexpected watermarks make me feel the whole process of drawing as a ritualistic moment.
During my undergrad college years, my focus was mainly on fashion design, however; I always had a dream of being an artist who created beautiful illustrations. Although fashion design was enjoyable and interesting, I always adored the process of putting on paper what I had imagined visually in my mind. I was also very eager to study art in more depth, which is why I chose to pursue a master’s degree in the illustration here in Georgia.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
When I am creating art, I like to focus on the eyes of figures. I love capturing the specific emotions and how the eyes are reflecting them. I believe the eyes are the windows into our soul. My inspiration comes from every moment of my life. Every second of life is precious. I want to communicate to people who see my art that in our life, there is up and down moments, but all of our struggles and triumphs are important parts of life and should be appreciated. I want viewers to feel the darkness and the brightness in my art coexisting to make a beautiful harmony.
Any advice for aspiring or new artists?
I think every part of our life is art. Art can originate from anyone. Art is a powerful medium to express ourselves. I want to encourage people who still hesitate to create their own art. Growing up in Korea I experienced a very competitive art world. I often compared myself to other artists and classmates and It has bitten me hard when I looked at their art and started to compare myself with them. It leads me to uncertainty and moments of depression. However, later, I realized it was all coming from me doubting myself and having low self-esteem, not because of any real comparison to their talent. I have found that strong self-belief is of paramount importance for any creative pursuits.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
You can always check my works in my official website www.juliayoonillustration.com. I am trying to upload my work process in my Instagram for the public. It is juliayoon_illustration. I am welcome to chat with the public via my website email or Instagram message. Feel casual to keep in touch.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.juliayoonillustration.com
- Phone: 678-662-9635
- Email: juliayoonillustration@gmail.com
- Instagram: juliayoon_illustration
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juliayoonillustration
Image Credit:
@Juliayoonillustration
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