Meet Shijun Munns of Atlanta

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shijun Munns.

Hi Shijun, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Foshan, a historic city in southern China known for its rich artistic traditions, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage. Growing up, I spent much of my childhood wandering through old streets and traditional neighborhoods, surrounded by architecture, folk art, and everyday beauty that quietly shaped my artistic sensibilities.

My journey as an artist began when I was ten years old. After injuring my foot and being confined at home for a period of time, I picked up an art book from my father’s bookshelf. That simple moment sparked a lifelong passion for painting.

I later attended an art school where I received formal training in drawing and painting, and eventually continued my studies at the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts. Those years gave me a strong foundation in both traditional Chinese aesthetics and Western art principles.

After graduating, I became an art teacher. Teaching and painting have remained the two great passions of my life. I love witnessing the growth of my students, just as I continue to grow through my own artistic practice.

In 2003, love brought me to Atlanta, where I built a new life with my husband. Starting over in a new country came with many challenges, but art became the bridge that connected my past and future. While learning English and adapting to a new culture, I continued teaching and creating, gradually rebuilding my career in the United States.

Over the past two decades, I have participated in art festivals and exhibitions throughout the country while teaching students of all ages. In 2025, I was honored to have two of my oil paintings selected for the Atlanta Midtown Alliance and featured in front of the High Art Museum,at the midtown of ATL heart of the arts. Looking back, I have come to realize that art is far more than a profession—it is a way of life. It teaches me how to observe the world with curiosity, gratitude, and compassion, and it continues to bring meaning and joy to my journey.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not always been a smooth road.

One of the greatest challenges in my life has been learning how to remain grounded while navigating change. Growing up during a period of significant social transformation in China taught me early on that life is often unpredictable. Later, immigrating to the United States required me to begin again from the ground up.

Arriving in a new country meant adapting to a different language, culture, and way of life while also rebuilding my professional identity. There were moments of uncertainty and self-doubt, as there are for many immigrants.

Throughout that process, art became my anchor. Whenever I sat down in front of a canvas, I could reconnect with myself and regain a sense of clarity and purpose. Painting helped me process change, overcome challenges, and find peace amid uncertainty.

Another ongoing journey has been finding my own artistic voice between Eastern and Western traditions. I deeply value the poetic subtlety and spiritual depth of Chinese aesthetics, while also appreciating the expressive power of Western color, light, and form. Learning to integrate these influences has been both a challenge and a gift.

Looking back, I am grateful for every obstacle I faced. Those experiences shaped my resilience, broadened my perspective, and strengthened my belief in the transformative power of art.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a professional painter and art educator. I am also an active member of the Oil Painters of America, the Portrait Society of Atlanta, and the American Impressionist Society.

My artistic philosophy is simple: “Life is a celebration worth blessing, and art heals life.”

My work primarily focuses on figurative and portrait painting, with a particular interest in portraying women. Regardless of age, culture, or ethnicity, every person carries a unique story, and I am drawn to the quiet strength, dignity, and humanity that connect us all.

As an immigrant artist, my work is deeply influenced by the experience of living between cultures. Themes of belonging, identity, memory, and human connection often find their way into my paintings. I am interested not only in a person’s appearance, but also in the emotions and spirit that lie beneath the surface.

Teaching is equally important to me. For many years, I have worked with both children and adults, helping them develop artistic skills while also discovering confidence, creativity, and personal expression. I have seen art transform lives—not only by creating beautiful work, but by helping people better understand themselves.

What I am most proud of is not a particular exhibition or accomplishment, but the impact art has had on my students. Some have gained confidence, some have found emotional healing, and others have developed a lifelong appreciation for beauty and creativity.

What sets me apart is my belief that art is ultimately about connection. Whether through painting or teaching, my goal is the same: to bring warmth, hope, and meaning into people’s lives through the transformative power of art.

What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I have learned is that true growth is not about constantly proving yourself to the world—it is about slowly returning to yourself.

Life is not always easy. There are moments of struggle, uncertainty, and disorder. Yet I have come to believe that life is still a celebration worth blessing. Art has taught me to find beauty in ordinary moments, peace in difficult seasons, and light even in times of change.

The deeper I travel through life, the more I believe that stillness is a source of strength. Like a tree rooted firmly in its own soil, I hope to continue growing toward the light—welcoming both the storms and the sunshine with gratitude.

Life is a celebration worth blessing, and art heals life.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://shijunart.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shijun_art/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shijunart/
• Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/ShijunArt