Ginok is a Korean-Canadian visual artist whose passion for creating art begun in the vibrant city of Pusan, South Korea. It was during her time at the Dada Academy in Pusan that Ginok discovered her innate talent and deep-seated calling for artistic expression. She further honed her skills and nurtured her creativity through painting practice at Pusan National University, a period she fondly remembers as one of her most cherished experiences in Korea.
The journey of an artist is often by challenges and perseverance, and Ginok’s path was no exception. Despite facing struggles and setbacks after art school, her determination to pursue her artistic vision only grew stronger. In 2000, after finding love, Ginok relocated to St. John’s, NL, where she continued to create art and showcase her work across the province.
Inspired by Atlantic Realism (or magic realism), Ginok’s artistic endeavours are rooted in representing reality though a lens uniquely informed by her womanhood. Her exploration of self-knowledge led her to delve into the complexities of women’s representation, a journey that culminated in her pursuit of a Master of Philosophy in Humanities at Memorial University. Through mediums such as painting, mural work, and printmaking, Ginok persistently seeks to visualize identity and difference, offering thought-provoking perspectives on the human experience.
Ginok’s artistic contributions have been recognized and celebrated, with her works finding in private and public collections across Canada, United States, the UK, and Korea. Currently, Ginok resides and works in Petty Harbour, NL, where she continues to draw inspiration from her surroundings. She is represented by Christina Parker Gallery in St. John’s, NL.