Embracing a nomadic lifestyle, Korean painter Heeje Cho, fuels his artistic journey by infusing work with vibrant hues and an individualistic style shaped by diverse experiences.  From the mundane, inspiration unfurls, mingling with the unforeseen. The finale never fails to astound him, the fusion of intention and chance propelling ceaseless evolution in his creations. Even throughout his experimentation and exploration phases, repetitive pieces surface—a means of crafting volume, which Cho believes to be essential—yet with his inception, a lack of enthusiasm and playfulness can occur. Hence, experimentation remains the cornerstone of his artistic realm.

Berlin, a city steeped in history and art, deeply resonates with him. Specifically, an encounter with the contemplative ambiance of the Jewish Memorial left an indelible mark on him, evoking emotions within him and the city’s citizens alike. The interplay of public sculptures and monuments in this space kindled his fascination with the transformative power of artistic environments.

With his extensive background of studying Fine Art at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and studying a Business Major in Vermont, Cho really embarked on a transformative artistic journey in the last 10 years of his life. Exposure to the art environment meant he could try many different art forms, such as Architecture and Photography but at its essence, he grew to love Abstract Art. Cho’s style is a harmonious blend of abstract Impressionism, graffiti energy, and cartoon illustrations, creating childlike whimsy. His artwork breathes life into his influences, reflecting his essence as an artist. Amidst the somber and dull undertones in his paintings, the process remains joyful and playful, driven by a sense of experimentation and innovation.

Can Flaws Be an Art Tool?

He draws inspiration from numerous German artists. However, one, in particular, is the acclaimed German Artist, Gerhard Richter. Captivated by Richter’s skillful use of color and the grandeur of his canvases, Cho implements these qualities as a guiding light, propelling his creative exploration.

Abstract painting didn’t always align with Cho’s original idea. Prior to discovering his current artistic voice, Cho experimented with various forms of art. Pencil, oil, acrylic, markers, these array of various forms of mediums. To help direct his artistic vision, Cho still uses these mediums in art pieces to this day. Remarkably, all these different mediums have woven themselves into the fabric of his current artworks to help him to create layers. In fact, the visible process is exposed by showing the mistakes he makes along the way which all merge seamlessly then into one medium. He embraces the imperfections, treated almost as if they are artistic mediums also.

Seeking a Creative Routine

Almost a decade into his artistic odyssey, he envisions a future for himself defined by artistic immersion. Following his residency here at PILOTENKUECHE, he aspires to establish a rooted artist’s routine, a departure from his nomadic past. This residency had aligned with his expectations, an affirmation of his journey from carpentry to art assistant and gallery tech. Amid PK’s vibrant community, he seeks to forge new and fruitful relationships and draw connections. Even draw inspiration from his fellow peers, fostering growth through shared creativity.

                                                                                                                      Written by Polina Rybaltchenko

Follow Cho on his Instagram. 

Circle Becoming Body

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