Arts to Hearts Magazine Issue 6 is a lively celebration of art’s ability to inspire, educate, and bring people together. This edition, carefully put together, invites readers into a space where female artists shine, each sharing their unique stories and perspectives. With every page, you get a deeper look into how women are shaping the art world in ways that are both meaningful and diverse.

The cover of this issue, created by the incredibly talented Haejin, is truly captivating. Haejin’s signature style beautifully captures what it means to be a woman, both on the outside and deep within. The cover imagery speaks volumes, showing women in all their many forms—highlighting not only their outward appearance but also the depth of their inner worlds. The mix of colors, textures, and different media pulls you into an experience that makes you feel something on a deeper level.

Through Haejin’s work, the cover becomes much more than just art. It’s a symbol of empowerment, a celebration of the complex beauty of womanhood, and a quiet invitation to reflect on the profound impact of women’s artistic expression.

Who is Haejin Yoo?

Haejin Yoo is a self-taught acrylic artist whose work has captivated art enthusiasts around the world. Born in Seoul, South Korea, and raised in Australia, Haejin’s journey to becoming an artist is as unconventional as the emotional depth of her art. With a unique blend of surrealism and expressionism, Haejin explores themes of identity, emotion, and memory, creating artworks that evoke a deep connection with the viewer. Her career spans across various disciplines, combining technical mastery with innovative use of mixed media to create truly immersive art.

Early Life and Education

Haejin Yoo’s educational background is rooted in the sciences. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Science from the University of Technology, Sydney, followed by a Master’s degree in Applied Science, specializing in Molecular Biotechnology, from the University of Sydney. Her academic foundation in the sciences influenced her meticulous and structured approach to the creative process, blending analytical thinking with artistic exploration.

Although Haejin’s interest in art began at a young age, it wasn’t until her late twenties that she fully embraced her artistic passion. The early years of her career were spent in the scientific field, where she honed her attention to detail and learned to appreciate the intersection of logic and creativity. It wasn’t until after spending nearly eight years in Germany, exhibiting her work across Europe, that she fully transitioned to an art career, returning to Sydney, Australia to further develop her artistic voice.

Themes and Styles

The core of Haejin Yoo’s artistic philosophy lies in the exploration of private moments and emotional states. Her most notable series, “Woman in the Bath,” portrays the female form in a quiet, intimate setting—the bath. This environment, often seen as a place of relaxation and solitude, becomes the backdrop for deep introspection and emotional release. By using symbolic imagery such as translucent liquids and delicate flowers, Haejin evokes a sense of fragility and beauty while also questioning the societal pressures that shape identity.

Her work often delves into the interplay between public and private personas. Through surrealistic elements and a delicate treatment of the human figure, she addresses themes such as self-reflection, emotional vulnerability, and personal growth. Haejin’s art invites the viewer to question their own identity, to reflect on their internal struggles, and to consider the delicate nature of the human experience.

Her surrealistic expressions are not confined to the canvas alone. Haejin often incorporates a variety of textures and materials—such as spray paint, textiles, and acrylic pours—into her work, adding layers of depth and complexity. This multi-dimensional approach to art allows her to convey emotions and experiences that transcend traditional painting techniques.

Awards and Recognition

Haejin Yoo’s work has been widely recognized in the global art community. Her numerous awards and accolades speak to the impact she has had on contemporary art:

• 2nd Prize, Beautiful Bizarre Art Prize 2024
• Saatchi Art’s Rising Stars 2024
• HUG100 Artists to Watch 2024
• Finalist, Boyne’s Artist Award 10th Edition (2024)
• Merit Prize Award, Teravarna International Juried Art Competition (2023)
• Artist Expert Award (2022)
• First Prize Abstract Award, FIRA International Art Fair Barcelona (2022)
  
  

In addition to these accolades, one of Haejin’s works, Woman in the Bath III, was selected as the primary artwork for The Other Art Fair London 2024. The piece was prominently featured on exhibition materials, including a 3-meter banner in the heart of London, garnering widespread attention.

Exhibitions

Haejin Yoo has exhibited her work extensively across Europe, the United States, and Australia. Some of her notable exhibitions include:

• Exhibitions across Europe: After spending several years in Germany, Haejin exhibited in galleries across Europe, where her surrealistic works resonated with a wide international audience.
• Saatchi Art: Her work has been showcased on multiple occasions by Saatchi Art, one of the leading online art platforms, further solidifying her presence in the global art scene.
• The Other Art Fair, Los Angeles (2023): Haejin also participated in the prestigious art fair in Los Angeles, where her work continued to garner significant attention.
• Exhibitions across Europe: After spending several years in Germany, Haejin exhibited in galleries across Europe, where her surrealistic works resonated with a wide international audience
  

Upcoming Exhibitions

•  Corey Helford Gallery, Los Angeles, USA (April 2025)
• Nanny Goat Gallery, Petaluma, CA, USA (June 2025)
• ‘Daughters of Eve’ at Quirky Fox Gallery, New Zealand (July 2025)
• ‘Gems’ at Quirky Fox Gallery, New Zealand  (November 2025)

Haejin’s art has a way of making you pause and reflect on your emotions, offering a quiet space for introspection. Whether it’s the graceful beauty of a flower, the quiet intimacy of a bath, or the tender vulnerability of the human body, her art allows you to connect deeply with your own feelings.

Her transition from the sciences to the arts is a beautiful story of following one’s true calling. As Haejin’s art continues to evolve, it’s evident that her work is making an impact, reaching hearts across the globe. For her, art is a dialogue between the artist and the viewer, a space where emotions are shared and understood.