Heejin Sutton
Cumming, Georgia
Artist Heejin Sutton creates surreal compositions where detailed animals, fruit, and sea life appear within expansive fields of color and geometric forms. "I am drawn to the quiet individuality that exists within all living things," says Heejin. She began drawing as a child, finding comfort and connection through art during a difficult early period in her life. She later studied Oriental painting in South Korea and continued her exploration of art's emotional impact through graduate studies in art therapy. Her work reflects this journey, using traditional Korean materials such as hanji (mulberry paper) and mineral pigments to build layered surfaces where each color interacts with those beneath it. By placing small subjects within simplified backgrounds, Heejin creates spaces that encourage viewers to slow down, notice subtle differences, and reflect on the uniqueness of each being. Today, she works from a small corner studio in her home in Cumming, Georgia, creating whenever she finds a moment between caring for her family and teaching art.
Artist Statement
I have been drawing ever since I was a little girl. I was very sick as a young child and, as a result, spent much of my childhood in the hospital. Drawing was my only outlet to give me peace and joy from loneliness. As I grew up, there was no doubt in my mind that I wanted to be an artist. I studied oriental painting extensively as a college student in South Korea.
After graduating with a degree in oriental painting, I wanted to share the therapeutic effects of art I experienced as a child with others, so I studied art therapy in graduate school. Throughout my studies, I met with many patients who had emotional scars. By experiencing art with the patients, I began to understand art at a deeper level, and my paintings began to be more honest and expressive of my inner self. Instead of painting simply for aesthetics and beauty, conveying honesty and a quiet image of my soul became more important.
I use Korean mulberry paper and pigments mixed with a glue base. These materials are perfect for preserving the process within the painting itself. Each layer of paint soaks into the paper, adding its own influence. I paint the backgrounds with many layers and colors until I find the shade I want. The solid color backgrounds represent my life and are a new world for the subject of the painting. By taking the subject out of its native environment and placing it in mine, I am able to project my emotions and feelings.
As an artist, I will continue to listen to my emotions and quietly tell my story. I want people who see my art to get a glimpse into my soul, my story, and to experience healing.
After graduating with a degree in oriental painting, I wanted to share the therapeutic effects of art I experienced as a child with others, so I studied art therapy in graduate school. Throughout my studies, I met with many patients who had emotional scars. By experiencing art with the patients, I began to understand art at a deeper level, and my paintings began to be more honest and expressive of my inner self. Instead of painting simply for aesthetics and beauty, conveying honesty and a quiet image of my soul became more important.
I use Korean mulberry paper and pigments mixed with a glue base. These materials are perfect for preserving the process within the painting itself. Each layer of paint soaks into the paper, adding its own influence. I paint the backgrounds with many layers and colors until I find the shade I want. The solid color backgrounds represent my life and are a new world for the subject of the painting. By taking the subject out of its native environment and placing it in mine, I am able to project my emotions and feelings.
As an artist, I will continue to listen to my emotions and quietly tell my story. I want people who see my art to get a glimpse into my soul, my story, and to experience healing.
Artist Background
Dongduk Women's University
Bachelor of Fine Arts, 2005
Dongguk Graduate School of Culture & Arts
Bachelor of Fine Arts, 2008