Korean Illustrator Speaks and CONTEST!

I am thrilled to introduce to you a talented Korean illustrator, Min jae Shin. Her sister is a coworker of mine (who is also incredibly talented) and she kindly agreed to let me interview her and offer you one of her autographed books! (see how at the end of this interview)

So Min jae, how long have your been drawing?
About eight years for illustrating for books, I also worked in broadcasting system for 5 years as a C.G designer.

What other books have you illustrated?

Ga-ul's Cooking, The Key Which I Have First, Princess' Feet, Puppy's Love, and some others. You can find more books in Alladin.

Wow! You’ve been busy. And by the way, congratulations on your release, A Sty for Sale. (Safaribook, English version)! What was your inspiration for creating the illustrations for this book?

Thank you! I’m often inspired from rough drawings and letting my mind wander. I also use the memories of me as a child.

I love how you’ve brought the ancient culture of Korea into the pictures. What were the challenges (literary, research, psychological, and logistical) in bringing it to life?

The sentiment in Korea at the time of 1960-1970 is similar to the one when I was young. Although I am keeping only the small part of things from that time, it is easy to find it at Insadong in Seoul. Also I have many photos from scenes during that time. It’s really interesting to draw a picture with my memories too.

What medium did you use to illustrate the pictures in A Sty for Sale? (i.e. watercolors, acrylics, chalk…)

I tried to utilize the vintage-style impression from 'collage' and a pastel crayon. I like to mix one of several materials, not limiting myself to only one specific medium.

What is it like to be an illustrator in Korea?

I think it’s very interesting and exciting work to do, but I also feel it's hard to communicate with children and readers here. And that is something we as illustrators need to work on. In Korea, there is a huge need for illustrators because Korean parents are really interested in their children's education.

You attended the Bologne Book Fair in Italy this year along with other Korean artists as the Guests of Honor. What was this experience like?

This was my first time. The publishing company asked me, and I agreed. It was okay, but what is really important to me is actually drawing.

What do you do when you're not writing or illustrating?

I am an opening title designer for a TV program, because I am a graphic designer. But it is clear that as I illustrate more, I will spend more time in this area because it’s really interesting and meaningful to me. I can say that this is very attractive job. It makes me think about who I am and what is important to me in this world.

Thank you so much for taking time to chat with us Min jae!

Now, I'm sure you are all dying to acquire one of Min jae's books and it so happens that I have an autograph copy of it to give away as a prize.

AND since this is my first contest (cheering please), I'm also offering a traditional Korean rice paper fan that will be the perfect addition to your keep-the-heat-away this summer. (See photo)

How To Enter:

1. Leave a comment below to be entered to win.
2. If you are a follower, you will get an extra entry (please remind me if you are!)
3. Post it on your blog for an extra entry (leave me a note that you did)

Don't worry, I will ship to anywhere in the WHOLE WIDE WORLD!!