Soonhwa Kang
multidisciplinary visual artist / designer
Born and raised in Tokyo, Japan with Korean heritage. Based in Haarlem, The Netherlands.
I received a BA in German literature at Rikkyo University (Tokyo).
During my time working as a graphic designer, I have studied branding, fine arts and ceramics in NYC, Amsterdam, Leiden and Haarlem.
With this multidisciplinary background, I have started making ink paintings and ceramic objects where the cultural experiences as a third-generation Korean-Japanese are the foundation of my work
Since 2016, I have been exhibiting my artwork at diverse galleries and alternative spaces.
Artist statement
My memories of cultural experiences as a third-generation Korean-Japanese are the foundations of my artwork. From those reminiscences,I keep searching for metaphors such as tools for memorial ceremonies or mountains and rivers on the border of South Korea and they represent embracing, feeling rooted and being free/freedom.
For my paintings and objects, clay and ink have been significant materials as these not only feel intuitive and tangible, but I also find the fluidity of them intriguing. Via those materials I explore the sense of belonging and the nostalgia in the search of one’s roots.
Own initiative / Collaborative projects
Hanato – Curated concept store
www.hanato.site
Connecting you with multi disciplined creators and their creations with inspiring stories.
Flatto 81
www.flatto81.nl
Creating products/workshops with handmade botanical inks and natural products
Hanato Morito
www.hanato-morito.com
Developing educational material to inspire learning Japanese.