Janice Kim
Q What do you do?
“It’s so hard to define what I am/what I do into simple words!! I’ve always been a multi-media, multi-disciplinary artist.”
I love design - it basically rules everything I do from the way I dress to what I . I have an appreciation for aesthetics. I'm a POC designer, WOC small business owner, aspiring video artist and creative director.
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
I'm a second-generation Korean American and my cultural identity has always been a confusing dichotomy between the two. I'm fortunate enough to have hard-working parents who have always supported my artistic dreams. I grew up in the Midwest (Nebraska), which were extremely strange experiences that inevitably shaped my mindset and values. It was frustrating for me growing up in a mostly White-dominant close-minded town trying to help my completely non-tech savvy, immigrant parents navigate a world during an overwhelming and fast-paced time of technology. I’m lucky enough to see the rise of the Internet and live today with phones that are smarter than most people.
A memory I’ll hold forever, and feel tremendous guilt about, is when my mother got into a fight with the grocery store associate for misunderstanding something that everyone else knew how to do already. People stood around us, some rolled their eyes, instead of sticking up for her and trying to help, my sister and I were by the door ready to leave — full of shame and embarrassment. I feel that tech has a way of separating people. This is why I want to make design that’s easy to understand, for anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background.
When we moved back to California, where I was originally born, I had tremendous culture shock and became exposed to diversity for the first time in my life. That opposed new challenges for me, as well. I came to really appreciate the other half of me and grateful for all of the negative experiences I had in Nebraska which only made my mission and goals clearer. I am blessed to have the chance to create, but I also hold a responsibility for those who don’t have the same opportunity or voice that I do. I want my cultural identity to reflect the type of person I am and the two different worlds I live in. I pursued my artistic education at Pratt Institute. I've always been interested in the arts since I was young so, naturally, I pursued design. I got my BFA in Communications Design - Advertising/Art Direction. I worked at the coolest streetwear brand called Richardson for 5 years where I got to develop multi-disciplinary skills to finally have the confidence to pursue full-time freelance and work on my own brand!
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I never say no. I'm always up for a challenge and my portfolio is full of different styles. I can adapt to different projects because I've learned versatility. I believe being versatile is one of the key skills to being successful. I've learned to absorb and adapt.
Q What are you working on right now?
I'm a freelance designer and social media manager. My passion is my self-care brand called oili. I am pursuing a small business in natural face oils. I also aspire to build my UX portfolio – I love the psychology behind user interfaces. I’m constantly learning to expand my knowledge; I’m a huge bookworm and hopefully I can build a library to accommodate. My passion is in creative direction. I'm a total freak about planning. I love researching and making mood boards.
Q What’s your style?
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
I would be interested in learning more about diversity and inclusion in design. I also think sustainability is an important topic that isn’t taken as seriously as it should. I also think that accessibility is an important thing that many people take for granted. I believe these are all important topics to always consider when designing a product that will last for generations to come.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
The most frustrating thing for me right now is not having enough time and hands to pursue all of my ideas.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
Someone who can give me an extra hand – help me achieve / organize all of my goals and creative ideas.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
Probably when I was growing up in Nebraska - I would’ve told myself to look at the bigger picture, the world is so much bigger than you think. Things always work out because the more energy you put into something the more you get back! Let go to receive more.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
The constant evolving technological advancements and how it’s going to affect the design industry. Especially the use of AI and even the connection between AI and ethics.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I’m looking for more freelance design positions. I love working with graphics and prints for apparel. I want more creative direction opportunities for brand identities and photoshoots. I want a job that will be a great segue into my career in UX and help me learn more about user experience.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
My ideal client would be for a POC/female-led company. Maybe in the holistic health/beauty industry. Someone who has a clear vision and would like to collaborate with me to create something amazing for the world. I’m someone that needs a lot of creative back-and-forth communication; I appreciate constructive criticism.
Q: What is your rate?
My starting hourly rate is $50. Depending on the project complexity and duration I am open to discussing details. I also like to work by monthly retainers.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
E-mail: janicekim95@gmail.com
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Thoughts flow like rivers, Imagination blooms wild— Endless worlds within.
This member profile was originally published in June 2024.