By Honorary Reporter Shaymaa Mohammed Roshdi from Egypt

As a collage artist, Suh Eun-jin, based in Korea, sticks to Korean artistic elements by putting in her collages chickens and other objects using Hanji (traditional handmade paper) and upcycling art. 

Nicknamed "Hanji artist," she cuts Hanji with scissors and expresses objects in a slightly relief form in her work. Her works depicting Korean nature are displayed through Aug. 16 at the Korean Cultural Center (KCC) in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), to mark the UAE's Year of Sustainability.

The following are excerpts from a July 14 email interview with Suh.

"Forest" (Suh Eun-jin)

Introduce yourself.

I'm Suh Eun-jin, aka Jinny Suh, a Hanji artist and owner of J&J Art Co. in Korea. I graduated from Ewha Womans University and hold an honorary doctorate in art from International American University in Los Angeles. Over the past decade, I've showcased my work globally, promoting Korean paper through Hanji collages. 

My art features traditional Korean themes like chickens, birds, pine and Goryeo celadon, using only Hanji and natural homemade glue to create a 3D effect.

How did you get the idea to combine Hanji with the collage technique?

Ten years ago, I began experimenting with Hanji paper collages inspired by Korea's promotion of Hanji for European art restorations in countries like Italy and France. I was captivated by Hanji's subtle colors and durability, which stem from its mulberry origins and millennium-long history. 

My goal is to blend this traditional medium with contemporary art to highlight its versatility and cultural significance to a global audience.

"Let's Go Back to the Past" (Suh Eun-jin)

What message do you hope to convey through your nature-stressing art?
My work focuses on nature particularly to address global warming. Amid the chaotic world of conflict and environmental decline, my art offers viewers a peaceful escape to serene forest scenes. The birds and wildlife in my paintings symbolize our connection to the present moment, providing a sense of calm and healing amid daily life's turmoil.

What aspects of Korean culture do you find most inspiring?
Goryeo celadon and unique pine trees greatly inspire me. The celadon's global impact and distinct charm of Korea's pine trees, with their smaller and exquisite appearance, are central to my work. I am deeply moved by Korea's rich cultural heritage, which inspires me daily. Contrary to popular belief, Hanji offers greater longevity than oil paintings.

Describe your exhibitions around the world over the years.
Since 2016, I've displayed at the Los Angeles Art Show. Though my work went unnoticed for the first three years, persistence led to growing appreciation and collector interest. I've also exhibited at the KCC in Barcelona (Spain) and my works are shown at "Garden on Paper: Hanji Art Exhibition" at the KCC in Abu Dhabi to mark the UAE's Year of Sustainability.

"Garden on Paper: Hanji Art Exhibition" at KCC in Abu Dhabi, UAE (KCC in UAE)

What is your artistic message to the world?
Take advantage of the beautiful characteristics of Hanji. I always focus on expressing its beautiful texture and reinterpreting it in a contemporary way rather than sticking with tradition. 

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.