012: Yeon Sook Park

Yeon Sook Park, hailing originally from South Korea, is an artist with a passion for visual art. She earned her bachelor's degree in visual art from EWHA Woman's University in Seoul, showcasing her early commitment to the world of art. Following the completion of her undergraduate studies, Mrs. Park matriculates on a two-year journey to pursue a master's degree in industrial design with a focus on ceramic art before her marriage and relocation to Guam.

Her artistic pursuits then took an interesting turn. Despite the changes in her personal life, Mrs. Park continued to thrive in the art scene, exhibiting her creations in solo and group shows in Guam and her home country, Korea.

Her talent did not go unnoticed, as she was selected by the Guam Chamorro Educational Facility project team to contribute to the illustration of Guam's history at the New Guam Museum. Moreover, Mrs. Park was commissioned to decorate a room at the Nieves M. Flores Memorial Children's Library with her captivating paintings.

Actively involved in the artistic community, Mrs. Park is a proud member of the Guam Council on the Arts and Humanities Agency, as well as the OBRA (Organized Brotherhood Relating to Arts) Artists group. Her commitment to the arts extended to her role as a member of the programming commitee for the Guam Festival of the Pacific Arts in 2016, where she not only contributed but also represented Guam as a delegate in the visual part division. The Guam Economic Development Authority has recognized her artistic capability by licensing her to incorporate the Guam seal into her work.

Mrs. Park's artistic footprint can be discovered in various locations across Guam, including the Guam Farmer's Co-Op, Tumon Sands Plaza, and the Offices of the Government of Guam. For those interested in reaching out to Mrs. Park, she can be contacted via email at movingcolorsart@gmail.com or by phone at 671-988-3302. Her dedication to her craft and the artistic community serves as an inspiration to fellow artists and art enthusiasts alike.

Describe what you do.

I serve as a visual artist actively engaged in the vibrant artistic community on Guam, primarily through my role as the Sergeant at Arms within the nonprofit organization, OBRA (Organized Brotherhood Relating to Arts). In addition to contributing to the visual arts landscape, I take pride in my position as a senior member of OBRA, where my focus extends beyond personal promotion to advocating for the collective success of our group. I find fulfillment in sharing my artistic journey and fostering a sense of community within OBRA. For more insights into our organization, feel free to explore our activities on Instagram (@obraguam).

How would you define art?

I personally observe art as a reflective form of self-care, a medium through which individuals explore and nurture their integrity and values. In my view, it serves as a tool for self-discovery, allowing one to research into the depths of their personality and express a rich skill of emotions. Art, to me, exceeds the creation of tangible objects; it is a means of storytelling that goes beyond traditional boundaries. It extends to the very design of everyday objects, like a chair or the contours of a car. In this light, I firmly believe that anything requiring creative thinking is a form of art, influencing and reflecting our values and, as a result, contributing to our overall well-being.

Why did you choose your art form?

I find joy in the spontaneous, freestyle nature of the creative process. My journey began during my dedicated year of visual arts practice, where I got on with the intention of developing a unique style influenced by various artistic genres.

How did your high school/college years affect the work you make today?

While my high school years weren't marked by exceptional academic ability, despite my earnest efforts, a significant turning point occurred when I was graciously accepted into the prestigious EWHA Woman's University in Seoul, South Korea. The unique environment of this women's college became a transformative experience, not only upgrading my academic skills but also influencing my behavior and nurturing my artistic abilities. It was here that I discovered and cultivated my passion for visual art major, ultimately shaping the artist I have become today in Guam.

Who do you idolize?

I draw inspiration from a diverse display of individuals, and while no one specific person immediately comes to mind, I particularly admire my grandparents. Their influence was essential in nurturing my passion for origin and visual art. Both of my grandfathers were educators, serving as middle and high school principals, and they advocated for a holistic

approach to education. My grandmother, who graduated from EWHA Woman’s University in Music with a focus on piano, further contributed to my appreciation for the arts. In essence, I consider my grandparents to be my role models.

Where do you get your inspiration?

My primary fountain of inspiration originates from my hometown, where the lingering scent of fish reminds memories of Korea. This profound connection has promoted a deep appreciation for Guam's tropical island culture. I consistently draw inspiration from what I affectionately consider my second home – Guam. The attraction of its ocean views and the captivating world under the sea find a place in my imagination and, subsequently, in my paintings.

What do you do when you're stuck on an artwork or lacking motivation or inspiration?

When faced with artistic block or a lack of motivation and inspiration, I choose to step away and engage in activities that offer a fresh perspective. This may involve journal writing, practicing breathing techniques for improved mental well-being, exploring different programs from unrelated genres, and incorporating basic physical exercises to enhance my physical health. After taking this break, I return with renewed energy and restart my creative process in painting.

What do you like incorporating most into your art?

I prioritize implanting my artistic expression with both skillful craftsmanship and the vibrant essence of tropical marine life, particularly incorporating fish. This dual focus allows my paintings to capture the picturesque beauty of Guam's islands and reminds nostalgic memories of my hometown where I was raised.

What is something that you add to your art as like your signature?

My artistic signature involves a combination of seascapes and Guam-inspired elements, featuring fascinating underwater scenes infused with my unique interpretation of colors and composition. Rather than replicating a photo precisely, I strive to saturate my work with imaginative touches, particularly in portraying the dramatic coral and marine life.

Take us through your process for making art.

Initiate the art-making process by applying several layers of Gesso to the canvas as a foundational step. Allow sufficient drying time before examining into conceptualizing ideas centered around tropical marine life. This involves conducting research and sketching directly on the canvas, canvas paper, or wood surface. Lately, I've been exploring beyond conventional boundaries, incorporating mixed media onto the canvas to diversify the portrayal of the underwater world and channel fantastical imaginations connected to dreamscapes.

What do you struggle with the most when making art?

While I have gained confidence in my artistic skills through experience, my primary struggle lies in managing time. As an active family caregiver responsible for both my parents-in-law and parents, who do not speak English, a significant portion of my time is assigned to accompanying them for various errands, including doctor's appointments. After expending my energy in this caregiving role, I often find myself exhausted and lacking the energy to pursue my own artwork as an artist. I recognize that my situation is unique, as many in the younger generation nowadays tend to live separately from their extended family.

What role do artists have in society?

I believe artists play a central role in society, their impact connected through the interrelated themes of Communication and Dialogue, as well as Innovation and Creativity. Through their creations, art becomes a strong means of communication, allowing artists to convey ideas, perspectives, and narratives that flee easy expression through other mediums. This forwards dialogue and deepens understanding within society. Moreover, artists frequently stand at the lead of innovation and creativity, possessing a unique capacity to think beyond typical boundaries. This ability not only introduces novel ideas, technologies, and approaches but also actively contributes to the key progress and development of society.

What characteristics do you think all artists share?

I believe perseverance is a key characteristic, given that the creation of art can be a challenging and occasionally frustrating process. Artists consistently demonstrate perseverance, overcoming obstacles and setbacks to realize their creative visions.

What’s your favorite place in Guam?

I think many individuals have their favored locations in Guam, whether it's outdoors under the breathtaking island landscape or at the beach to enjoy the ocean view. As an artist, my cherished and comfortable spot in Guam is within the boundaries of my own home, particularly in my small workspace. Though it may not be large, every corner and gap are inspired with my imaginative touch, providing a comfortable setting to produce and paint my artwork.

How has your artwork evolved over time?

During my younger years, my artwork primarily focused on realistic depictions, often through direct copying of objects. Now, as a visual artist, I've gone on board on a journey to shape out my distinctive style, undergoing a significant transformation from realism to surrealistic expressionism. Influenced by the dream-like style of Salvador Dalí, a renowned surrealist artist, I now seek to inspire my work with a more imaginative and expressive quality.

Why did you choose to become an artist?

Becoming an artist wasn't a considered choice for me. What I mean is that I didn't intentionally set out to become an artist. The eye-opener came unexpectedly one day as I was cleaning and tidying up my daughter's room after her high school graduation, where she embarked on a major in Human Biology on the Mainland. Among the items kept for sorting and throwing away—canvas, various brush sets, acrylics, charcoal, and art books—I found myself pausing. A sudden realization began in me: What was my major in university? For a significant period, my focus had been on raising my children and caring for my parents-in-law and parents in Guam, causing me to lose touch with my former self and the interests that defined who I was and what I had studied in Korea. It felt like the dormant state of winter animals within my artistic field.

In that moment, a spark ignited within me, prompting me to retrieve those art materials and rekindle my practice. It felt like rediscovering a part of myself, a personal reawakening. Now, I am actively engaged in producing my creations on canvas as a local artist.

Do you have any tips for aspiring artists?

I'd like to offer a few suggestions for aspiring artists. Discover your unique voice; while drawing inspiration from others is valuable, make an intentional effort to cultivate your own artistic style. Allow your personality to shine through your work. Embrace mistakes; don't shy away from them—instead, welcome them as integral to the learning journey, as mistakes often lead to unexpected discoveries and improvements. Have confidence in yourself; belief in your artistic abilities is essential. Trust in your potential and be unafraid to take risks on your artistic journey. I believe in recognizing your artistic journey's uniqueness; acknowledge that the path to becoming an artist is marked for everyone. Exercise patience, remain dedicated, and appreciate the process of self-discovery and creative expression. Remember, your artistic journey is personal, and the joy lies in the continual exploration and growth.

Is your art geared towards a specific audience?

Given that some of my artwork is too large to transport for off-island travelers, I modify my creations by creating and adjusting small prints with accompanying mating. This way, they become convenient to carry back to their respective countries, including options like postcards and note cards.

013: Olivia Newman

011: Francis Labrador