Janie Jaehyun Park, an Ottawa-based Canadian visual artist, has studied a wide range of drawing and painting techniques and media throughout her entire life. She holds a BA in French Literature from Yonsei University in Seoul, Korea, and a diploma in Illustration from Sheridan College in Ontario, Canada. Janie has illustrated several award-winning children’s picture books, and her commercial illustrations have appeared in a variety of printed media. Janie has exhibited her artwork in Seoul, Toronto, Ottawa, and Georgeville, for many years. Her paintings and collages are in many private collections in Korea, Canada, and in Ottawa City Art Collection.

Janie’s painting, a blend of stylized representationalism and introspection, reflects her state of mind. Captivating moments inspire her to immerse herself in their stories. At times, Janie’s work is characterized by rich and vibrant colours, while in other instances, it features a strong focal point with a more restrained palette. Regardless of the approach, she strives to create striking compositions that engage the viewer.

In addition, Janie has been presenting her distinctive collage crafted from Hanji, a Korean traditional handmade paper. At an early age, she discovered a unique technique of drawing lines with water and carefully tearing the paper to reveal soft, fibre-like edges. This practice gave rise to her signature Hanji Collage, embodying both her artistry and heritage, a lifelong passion she pursues alongside her representational paintings. Inspired by the patchwork quilts of Korea that symbolize the relationally collective culture Janie grew up with, her collages explore the harmony of individual pieces coming together to create a meaningful and beautiful whole.

ARTIST’S STATEMENT

I find immense joy in translating my thoughts and emotions into visual form. For me and those around me, creating art is a meditative experience that brings both reflection and fulfilment.