We had the good fortune of connecting with Minji Kang-Watrous and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Minji, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
When I first came to Texas in 2003 for an internship for hospitality management, my major at University. I didn’t think that I would, but I struggled with homesickness. I began making art for comfort so I could focus on finishing my internship. I was using traditional Korean paper called hanji. Which was very familiar and nostalgic for me since hanji was my moms only medium she used for her art. When I got back to Korea after finishing my internship, I couldn’t stop thinking/making art. At that time I didn’t think about doing art or being a creative as a career although that’s always been the dream.
 

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am self taught artist that tight walks tradition with modernity. I use hanji, a traditional Korean paper derived from mulberry trees. The medium itself is 1000’s of years old and is not new by any means, but my application of hanji on to pop imagery of Bearbricks and other vinyl toys with matching background art is singular. It was and never is easy. I keep focused on making current project while thinking about the next. The only opportunities you can take advantage of are the ones you are ready for.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My best friend Korea has never visited me in DFW, but if she did, we would

+ Tin District
– Go to my studio at 2512 Sylvan Ave in the Tin District in Dallas
– While in the Tin District stop by the galleries Daisha Board Gallery, Ro2, & 500x
– (if visiting April 27th we would go to “Tin District Art Walk” open studios)
-Lunch will be at the neighborhood taco shop, Reveles Mexican Bakery, cash only and closes at 1pm or till they sell out

– Check out the latest at Kettle art in Deep Ellum
– Lunch at Pecan Lodge

– Dallas Contemporary
– Klyde Warren
– Nasher
– food truck

– Go to a game Rangers, Mavs, or Stars

_-Ft Worth Stockyards and The Modern

– I live in Irving, so we would hit up my favorite local spots, Mr Max and Pho Empire both on Beltline

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have to shout out my mom. She never encouraged art as a career, but all I saw growing up was my mom making art. She is the reason I use hanji (Korean traditional paper) as my main medium. We recently collaborated on a large vinyl toy “Phantom” with its matching background art “Moody”. Made entirely of hanji, even the fur mask.

Website: www.minjikw.com

Instagram: @minjikw

Other: TikTok @minjikw

Image Credits
Barry Snidow, Hal Samples, Rusty Bradford

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