[Interview] Samsung Art Store x Hyun Kim: Connecting With Your Inner Child Through Art

Samsung Art Store is a remarkable service for The Frame, the award-winning lifestyle TV that gives viewers new ways to enjoy artwork from the comfort of their home. The art subscription platform provides access to an expansive range of artworks, giving users the power to transform their living room into their own personal art gallery.

Hyun Kim has been working as an artist for 20 years since he made his debut as a children’s book illustrator. His most famous painting, “Gooly Gooly Friends,” is known for its adorable animals with vibrant colors and a sense of warmth. Inspired by his daily experiences, Kim’s work is playfully cheerful and appeals to both children and adults.

Samsung Newsroom met with Kim to talk about how his heartwarming artworks can turn our monotonous lives into sweet fairy tales.

▲ Illustrator Hyun Kim and his studio

Q: The collaboration with Samsung Art Store focused mainly on the cheerful and lovely characters from “Gooly Gooly Friends” and was hugely popular among users. What artworks are you displaying on the Art Store this time and why?

Most of the previous works displayed on the Art Store were simple and bright character pictures.

As a children’s book illustrator, I always try my best to portray the world as seen through the eyes of children. That’s why many have said my work brings back childhood memories.

I realized that people love not only a pure, delightful world like that of their childhood but also serene images that are equally impactful and aesthetic. Recently, I’ve expanded my process to include the perspective of adult audiences as well. I believe everyone has their own inner child, and I consider what world that little child would want to see when choosing an art subject.

I hope the joy of art can rejuvenate any family member, not only young children.

Q: What are the benefits of displaying art digitally on a screen?

Digital art allows audiences to access artwork anytime and anywhere. So, its biggest advantage lies in its flexibility. Users can select different pieces based on their emotions or to fulfill a certain purpose. That small change can also make their whole space completely different.

I think The Frame is the best screen for my work and other digital art as its incredible picture quality displays the detailed colors and captures the unique textures.

Q: With technological advances, the way we experience and consume artwork is changing. What is the role of the Art Store?

The Art Store helps users easily and comfortably access art in their daily lives while also providing an opportunity for lesser-known artists around the world to introduce their work to new audiences. In addition, the Art Store serves as a gallery at home where anyone can enjoy masterpieces from a variety of popular museums.

I hope that the Art Store will continue to expand this virtuous cycle where both artists and audiences can coexist and benefit.

Q: What three pieces of yours would you recommend for users to display through the Art Store?

▲ Merry Christmas

“Merry Christmas” can be displayed alongside Christmas décor in one’s home to make it even more festive during December. I often display other artists’ works in my living room, but for December, I chose “Merry Christmas” to refresh the overall atmosphere.

▲ Redwoods

This past April, I went on a solo trip to Jeju Island. I spent so much time taking slow strolls in the forest. One day, I really felt the Forest of Healing comforting me with its profound silence, and I felt the incredible energy of nature.

“Redwoods” is the first artwork I drew after my trip. It always reminds me of that awe-inspiring and exciting moment.

▲ Waiting Xmas

“Waiting Xmas” is a dark painting with more densely packed subjects. The style is different from my traditional artworks, which consist of vibrant, basic colors and adorable characters. “Waiting Xmas” shows the excitement of preparing for Christmas in a quiet winter with achromatic colors.

Q: What is your future goal as an artist?

Samsung Art Store enabled the global exhibition of my work. The other day, a person from the other side of the world said that my work gave them great comfort during a tough time. I have also heard that many kids see my work every day. How wonderful is that?

I am greatly looking forward to continuing to work with the Art Store to positively influence others through art.

To see more artwork from Hyun Kim, head to the Tonybunny collection of the Art Store.