Today we’d like to introduce you to Jaycie Kim.
Jaycie, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I am the lead designer at a small digital marketing company in Ontario called Firm Media. I love my job and I get to lead a great team and design great products. I am also an artist. My art differs from what I do at my “real job” a lot. My art focuses on positivity but also depression and loss. I like making other people feel better and I think that’s where I found my niche. A lot of the projects I’ve started revolve around the idea that things will get better.
I struggle personally with depression and I know how it feels to be completely alone and helpless. my goal is to make sure no one else feels how I felt and if a small note, print, or piece of art can do that then that’s what ill continue to do.
In the past year or so, I’ve been more public with my art. in the past I had issues with selling and distributing art because I don’t like the idea that people need to pay for what I make but I’m learning it’s all part of the process. I still love making things that will be “free”. For example, I’ve recently been putting up banners with positive messages throughout Redlands, CA. I also leave “encourage-mints” throughout the Inland Empire or places I travel, including San Diego.
Has it been a smooth road?
I would say it’s been relatively smooth. I am a designer and that path made it easier to become an artist. 2014 was probably my most productive year, art-wise. I suffered through heartbreak and it inspired me to create. There were days where I would be in the art studio for 12 hours. I’ve learned that I create and do more art when I’ve experienced trauma, whether it be a breakup, loss, or failure. I’ve always thrived on it. For a few years, my life suddenly became better and I became happier and unfortunately, I stopped making art altogether for about two years. I realized I do my best work when I’m sad and I don’t do anything when I’m happy but everything is a process and I’m learning to balance it.
What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
I am an independent artist and designer. I do freelance design work occasionally but my real passion projects are the ones I create for others.
I wouldn’t call it a business. I like doing things that can’t be purchased. It makes it feel more special when you find a small piece of artwork by chance and I like that feeling and love giving that feeling to potentially a lot of people.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I’ve visited San Diego many times. I love the city. It’s very calming and nurturing. I like drinking coffee and working at coffee shops or in parks. San Diego is a lot quieter and more slow-paced than Los Angeles which is what I’m used to so it’s nice to be in San Diego. It’s like going home but not home exactly.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.jayciekim.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayciekim/
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