Watch & Listen to this podcast Episode.
In this episode of the Arts to Hearts podcast, host Charuka Arora has a warm and honest conversation with artist Haejin Yoo about her journey from working in the corporate world to following her true passion—art.
Haejin opens up about how she discovered her love for creating and the challenges she faced along the way. She shares how difficult it was to leave a stable job, overcome self-doubt, and find her creative voice. Through hard work, resilience, and self-belief, she slowly built a true path.
During the episode, Haejin talks about her creative process, struggles to develop her style and the moments that kept her going even when things got tough. She also shares what she has learned about self-acceptance and how dedication to your passion can lead to personal growth and fulfillment.
This conversation reminds me that the journey to following my dreams isn’t always easy, but anything is possible with patience, perseverance, and belief in myself.
| Timestamp | Summary |
|---|---|
| 0:00 | Celebrating Female Artists and the Journey of Haejin Yoo |
| 1:37 | From Biomedical Science to Art: A Journey of Self-Discovery |
| 8:46 | Technical Difficulties and the Challenges of Getting Started |
| 10:54 | The Struggles and Fulfillment of Independent Creative Work |
| 16:51 | The Journey of Finding a Unique Artistic Style |
| 21:02 | Mastering Acrylics to Mimic the Smoothness of Oil Paintings |
| 22:33 | Perseverance and Self-Worth in the Journey of an Artist |
| 31:30 | A Last-Minute Decision to Attend Fia Barcelona Art Fair |
About the Guest(s):
Haejin Yoo is a self-taught artist based in Germany, known for her exceptional skills in acrylic painting. Despite her background in biomedical science and molecular biotechnology, Haejin pursued her passion for art, dedicating over 14 years to mastering various mediums. She has a distinctive style characterized by using acrylics in a way that mimics the smoothness of oil painting. Haejin’s journey as an artist is a testament to perseverance and self-discovery, showcasing her ability to overcome challenges and find fulfillment in her creative endeavors.
Episode Summary:
In this engaging episode of the Arts2Huts podcast, host Charu Kaarora sits down with Haejin Yoo, an accomplished artist with a unique journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration. Haejin shares her remarkable transition from a corporate career to embracing her artistic calling, emphasizing the importance of resilience and self-worth in pursuing one’s passion. The conversation delves into Haejin’s creative process, the challenges she faced in establishing her signature style, and the heartfelt motivation that kept her going through difficult times.
Key themes include the innate desire to create, the journey of self-acceptance and growth as an artist, and the transformative power of dedication and perseverance in pursuing artistic fulfillment.
Key Takeaways:
- Haejin Yoo’s journey underscores the significance of self-worth and responsibility in driving one’s passion and artistic endeavors.
- The challenges of defining a unique artistic style and the importance of continuous practice and evolution in honing one’s craft.
- Overcoming self-criticism and external obstacles by staying committed to the creative process and embracing the journey of self-discovery.
- The impact of personal experiences, such as becoming a mother, on one’s artistic expression and the ability to adapt and explore new mediums.
- The rewarding nature of artistic exploration and the fulfillment found in creating despite uncertainties and setbacks.
Notable Quotes:
- “Being an artist is a marathon. You have to just keep creating, keep going, even when self-doubt creeps in.” – Haejin Yoo
- “The drive as an artist comes from within, from a deep sense of self-worth and responsibility to honor your creative spirit.” – Haejin Yoo
- “Defining a unique style as an artist takes time, practice, and a willingness to evolve through self-discovery and experimentation.” – Haejin Yoo
- “Every artist’s journey is unique, filled with challenges and rewards that shape their artistic identity over time.” – Haejin Yoo
- “Artistic exploration is a transformative process, allowing for self-expression and growth beyond boundaries and limitations.” – Haejin Yoo
Charuka Arora is the founder of the Arts to Hearts Project and Host of the Arts to Hearts Podcast. She is also an acclaimed Indian artist known for her contemporary embellished paintings. Her unique blend of gouache, collage, embroidery, painting, and drawing explores the intersection of art, culture, heritage, and womanhood. Through her work, she tells stories of female strength and encapsulates them in pieces that can be treasured for generations.
Charuka’s work draws inspiration from Hindu mythology, recognizing women as vessels of Shakti, the cosmic energy. She beautifully portrays powerful goddesses like Durga Maa riding a tiger or lion, symbolizing their unlimited power to protect virtue and combat evil.
Through her art, Charuka invites us into the world of women, showcasing their beauty, strength, and resilience. Her creations not only exhibit exceptional talent but also serve as an inspiration and a symbol of hope for those challenging societal norms.
Arts to Hearts Podcast is a show delving into the lives and passions of renowned artists. From running creative businesses and studio art practices to cultivating a successful mindset, Charuka Arora engages in heartfelt conversations with her guests. Experience your personal happy hour with your favorite artists, right in your studio.
Through candid discussions, Charuka and her guests reveal the joys and challenges of a vibrant creative life, both within and beyond our studios. Get ready to be inspired and uplifted as you tune in.
Haejin Yoo
Haejin Yoo is a self-taught artist based in Germany, known for her exceptional skills in acrylic painting. Despite her background in biomedical science and molecular biotechnology, Haejin pursued her passion for art, dedicating over 14 years to mastering various mediums. She has a distinctive style characterized by using acrylics in a way that mimics the smoothness of oil painting. Haejin’s journey as an artist is a testament to perseverance and self-discovery, showcasing her ability to overcome challenges and find fulfillment in her creative endeavors.
Overcoming Early Struggles to Chase a Dream
For many artists, success feels elusive, and recognition can take years to achieve. Haejin Yoo’s story is a powerful example of how self-belief and perseverance can pave the way, even when the odds are stacked against you.
Growing up, Yoo didn’t have the support or encouragement that many aspiring artists long for. Her family didn’t see art as a viable path, making her journey even harder. But despite the lack of validation, she never stopped pursuing what she loved. Her determination to create became the driving force behind her journey.
“If you don’t stop, then you really like it really doesn’t you really don’t go anywhere. You’ve got to just keep creating.”
Haejin Yoo S4 E55
Finding Her Creative Voice
One of the biggest challenges for any artist is developing a signature style that makes their work instantly recognizable. Yoo’s journey was no different. She experimented with different materials, from colored pencils to watercolors to acrylics, searching for a technique that truly felt like hers.
Over time, she refined her approach, layering thin coats of acrylic paint to create a smooth, oil-like finish. But this discovery didn’t happen overnight—it took over a decade of trial and error. Yoo’s patience and persistence paid off, proving that finding your artistic identity is a process, not an instant revelation.
Pushing Through Doubt and Hardships
Like many artists, Yoo faced financial struggles, self-doubt, and moments when she questioned whether she should continue. At one point, she considered giving up altogether. But instead of walking away, she made a final attempt—participating in an art fair that changed everything.
That event turned into a breakthrough moment. She received praise and recognition for her work, reigniting her belief in herself. It proved that sometimes, the toughest moments come just before a breakthrough.
“Being an artist is something that you are born with, that’s something innate within you, like spiritually.”
Haejin Yoo S4 E55
The Power of Self-Belief and Responsibility
One of the most relatable aspects of Yoo’s story is her honesty about her struggle to stay motivated. She admits that, at times, her drive doesn’t come from passion alone but from a sense of responsibility to herself and her work.
Artists often battle self-doubt and criticism, both from others and from within. But Yoo’s journey reminds us that taking ownership of our path and trusting our instincts can lead to incredible growth. Staying committed to our craft makes all the difference even in difficult moments.
Finding joy in the process of creating
Yoo’s story highlights a simple but important truth: success in art (and in life) isn’t just about reaching a goal. It’s about the journey—about pushing through challenges, learning from failures, and finding joy in the process of creating.
Her experience is a powerful reminder for artists and creatives everywhere to keep going, experiment, and believe in themselves. The path may not be easy, but the rewards of staying true to your vision are worth it.
At the end of the day, the art we create reflects our journey, our struggles, and our perseverance. And that’s what makes it truly meaningful.
Remember, the art of creation is not just about the outcome but the journey of self-discovery and growth it entails. Press on, create, and accept the challenges along the way.
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