Soo Kim is a South Korean artist who has studied and dedicated herself to the arts since an early age. A graduate with a BFA from Parsons School of Design, Soo Kim has then experimented with graphic design, photography, clay work, and watercolors; however, it was working with alcohol inks that became her medium of preference.
Soo Kim says, “ Discovering alcohol inks has been a transformative journey for me, unlocking a purpose I never knew I was searching for.” As a medium, alcohol ink involves delicately pouring vibrant inks of mixed alcohol and then moving it onto a non-porous surface. This creates mesmerizing organic compositions that emphasize the fluidity of the creative process and with references to classic Korean landscape painting.
For Soo Kim, painting is more than a creative outlet; it is also a therapeutic practice that can
help her navigate challenges and express emotions. The color compositions play a key role in her unique form of communication.
Soo Kim works and lives in New Jersey, where she is a Glen Rock Arts Council member. Her work is represented in Seoul, Florida, California, New York, and New Jersey.
Shop Soo Kim at Newel
Our Interview with Soo Kim
What inspired you to become an artist, and what motivated you to pursue this career path?
I experienced the healing power of alcohol inks and became captivated by the medium. I instantly fell in love with the soothing flow of the inks, blending colors to create beautiful layers. In this mesmerizing process, I found relief and a renewed sense of hope. Art, especially through the transformative nature of alcohol inks, has become my refuge—a space to heal, relax, and rediscover the endless potential of self-expression.
Do you have a favorite artist and why?
Georgia O'Keeffe is one of my favorite artists. She masterfully tells a story through her unique lens on nature, capturing its beauty in a sophisticated form. Her work continues to inspire me, and I enjoy sharing that inspiration with my students.
How would you describe your creative process, and what techniques or mediums do you enjoy using the most?
My process is all about ‘letting go’ and expressing emotions through abstract shapes and forms. It demands complete focus, allowing me to be fully present as I let colors and the flow guide me in creating movement on the canvas.
What themes or messages do you hope to convey through your art, and what kind of emotions do you want your audience to experience when they view your work?
I want my viewers to pause, take a deep breath, and experience the soothing effects of alcohol inks through my artwork. My goal is for my art to serve as a healing force, energizing and rejuvenating through the fluidity and movement of each piece.
Can you share a specific project or piece that you are particularly proud of, and what makes it meaningful to you?
‘Mind on Fire’ is one of my earliest works, inspired by a time when I needed hope, and it has so much positive energy. It can brighten up any room.
What was the first project you worked on?
This may be triggering, but my first large project was for a dear friend—an emergency room nurse in NYC. During the height of COVID-19, she commissioned me to create a large pink and gold canvas to refresh her bedroom. I remember delivering the artwork, and she loved it so much! She shared it all over social media and sent me photos of her beautiful new room. Sadly, a few months later, we learned that she had passed away after struggling with depression. This heartbreaking loss became a driving force for me to create more, hoping to heal others. I’ll always treasure the moment her face lit up when she saw her commissioned work.
How do you stay inspired and motivated, and what advice would you give to aspiring artists who are just starting out?
We are here for a limited amount of time. I treasure every day, which motivates me to live and move forward. Find your group of artist friends who will push you to your greatest limits!
What do you like to do in your free time/ outside of work?
I love going on nature walks with my dog and listening to podcasts or music.
How would you define your work in three words?
Relaxing, energizing, Freeing
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
An Artist!
