Grace Choi

 I am an artist who immigrated from South Korea to the large (very large!), vast lands of Alaska. As an immigrant, my story is filled with the discovery of self, identity, and the power of art and its storytelling. It's been quite a long journey and process over the decades for me to carefully shape and build my voice and vision in my work, and I am constantly striving to do more. There is always more to learn, always more to discover. My work and exhibitions back in Korea have always been abstract, but after moving to Alaska and experimenting with different styles and genres, I began to converse with people who’ve lived here for a while and spent much time observing the daily life and atmosphere that occurs here. The pristine wilderness, the snow-capped mountains, the shimmering and glistening glaciers—but even with the endless natural aspects of this place, there were always humans in most, if not every, presence. And they are the ones who became the "models" for my artistic explorations. I am fascinated by the sparks that shine in the mundane moments of life that often go unnoticed, and through my paintings, I wish to capture the essence of these precious moments so that their stories can last a lifetime. My art is a personal journey for myself, emulating the cycling nature of existence. These reflections naturally seep into the landscapes and people around me, becoming the subjects of my canvases. My creative process sits in the lines of realism, capturing the tangible elements of canvas and materials, as well as the intangible concepts of time and space. I feel that my work speaks of nostalgia and a sense of comfort. The feeling of home. In a world filled with constant movement and noise, I find peace in the stillness that can be found in the intimacy between humans and nature. Whether it’s a shared glance, a soft touch, or a quiet reflection. Whether it's a hiking trip with your family or a long drive to the mountain—these are moments that speak volumes without words. These moments, to me, are the tiny threads that weave our lives together over time. I want my art to serve as a platform for dialogue and understanding, a bridge to bring diverse communities together. By sharing my perspective of life through visual expression, I hope to evoke empathy, spark conversations, and inspire others to embrace the power of their own stories.

A Neighborhood on a Mellow Pathway

Oil on Linen

28.5" x 28.5" x 1"

$6,500.00

2021