Artist Anna Yoo creates nuanced and mindful mixed-media paintings through experimenting with abstraction and expressionism. “My work explores linear gestures to emulate the connection of the invisible link of undefined space and what can be defined by representing the human body as simple forms,” says Anna. Born in South Korea, Anna inevitably encountered cultural and language barriers when she moved to Richmond, Virginia. She graduated with a BFA in painting at Virginia Commonwealth University and became a fellow at Virginia Museum of Fine Arts years after. She draws from her reflections through her practice of creating daily sketches. Based on the concept of each piece, Anna uses a variety of materials layering acrylic paint, oil paint, cold wax, and traditional Korean paper called Hanji. She often uses blue as a neutral color to create contrast and focuses on inspirations from her East Asian background. Anna’s home studio utilizes two rooms for painting, varnishing, and working on 3D installations. In her free time, she travels the world and reads poetry to gain more inspiration.