Tell us about your project. What inspired the idea?

I create multimedia art installations and short films in surreal spaces of comfort and wonder. When I first left South Korea for the United States, the unfamiliar environment triggered feelings of panic and anxiety. I began to dream up surreal scenes that made me feel safe and comfortable. Daydreaming became not only a coping mechanism but also a source of inspiration for my artwork. I source imagery from my daydreams to create a theatrical atmosphere. The background scenery is drawn from familiar domestic spaces I often occupy in my dreamlike state. I proceed to fill this stage with symbolic items and imagery. After completing the installation, I created performances and short films that activate the space.

What most surprised you once you started working on the project?

I had many conversations with visitors while working on this project, and I was surprised and delighted by how many people related personally to the work. Although my work is made based on my own life experience, I found that viewers entered the work by substituting their own experiences. Listening to their stories has inspired me to make art that can reach out and uplift the viewer. This process taught me how many people experience panic, anxiety, isolation and insomnia—particularly during the pandemic. I have realized that my work is an exercise in empathy, only complete when it is shared with an audience. Through my practice, I hope to connect with individuals and communities struggling with these conditions and to create a shared space that invites healing, comfort and compassion.

What was the highlight of living and studying in New York City?

I have found New York is a city that loves art, respects artists and offers many opportunities and resources. Everyone can experience a variety of arts through numerous galleries, museums, and artist studios. My SVA student ID allowed me free admission to many museums, and I took advantage of this as often as I could. Recently, I encountered the mural at MoMA PS1 that says, “ARTISTS MAKE NEW YORK.” As an artist now living in New York, this sentiment really resonated and made me feel happy.

What is something you learned at SVA that you’ll always take with you?

I learned not to be afraid to try new ideas and media. My professors and peers at SVA always supported me in thinking through new processes and realizing my ideas. I took a variety of classes, and my newly acquired skills include Adobe programs, book-making, ceramics, photography, printmaking and many others. This diverse program of study allowed me to create the interdisciplinary installation I am making now.

Was there a teacher or course that was essential for you?

In the MFA program, we have both studio classes and mentorship sessions. Throughout the program, I met with professors twice a month in my studio for an hour-long conversation. Many SVA professors are current artists, curators and gallerists, and it was so valuable to share my work with them and learn about their own lives and the art world.

What was your favorite piece of advice that a teacher or student shared with you?

All my studio professors always essentially said, “Do not stop making! Everyone has a different timing. If you continue to develop and create good work, there will definitely be a person who recognizes it. And now, we can share the art world together as colleagues.”

What advice do you have for next year’s students going through your program?

Health and mental care are the most necessary. When you are stuck or having a hard time, I recommend talking to people around you and asking for help from professors.

I received so much feedback on my work from so many different people at SVA. Sometimes I found that I couldn’t take it all in, so I would write down the important things and revisit my notes when feeling stuck. Everyone has a different working speed, and you must figure out your own pace. Time management is important.

To see a complete list of the 2022 Alumni Scholarship Award recipients, click here. For more information about how to apply for the 2023 Alumni Scholarship Awards, click here. To Support the Talent this year, you can make a donation online at sva.edu/give.

The BFA Illustration and MFA Fine Arts graduate was recognized for her multimedia art installations and short films thesis project, ‘The Dreamer Box’