Meet A K | Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with A K and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi A, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
It’s always felt natural. From a young age I was able to recognize that my strengths are in creativity. I usually follow the motions and practice listening to myself about what it is that I really seek out of my time being here. It’s more difficult for me to follow a set routine; I enjoy having my days vary. Naturally being like this has led me to more meaningful interactions and therefore allowed me to perceive life in a lighter sense.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I make abstract art. There’s not much to explain because what you see and feel will be completely dependent upon yourself. I work with color and just pick them out before I start painting. I never know what a painting will look like up until I’m done. I just go with the flow of it. I like to visit different locations when I paint and get to know different people along the way. The world is filled with so many fascinating stories. I practice minimalism as well and incorporate it into my art by being resourceful and light. I’ll only ever paint with a few colors and a brush. This stems from having so far moved a total of 12 times. I learned from an early age that everything is temporary and will always change. I’m always grateful that I can do whatever I want; like just taking the train somewhere and finding a spot to paint. I recognize that I have time to invest in my passions and in todays world that’s undervalued. Social media is nonexistent for me. I can’t be found anywhere unless you can find me in person. The connections I make face to face are so valuable. Of course this makes marketing myself a bit more challenging but I’m more than content with that. I’ve found my comfort in doing things exactly how I want when it comes to art. It’s been a lifelong journey till now. 

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I had someone come and visit me, one of the first places I’d take them would be my favorite art museum in OC. The Orange County Museum of Arts in Costa Mesa. It’s just my style in terms of aesthetics inside and outside. The staff is super friendly and respectful and just great to talk to. Now for food, I’ve  got a few suggestions. I love the seasonal, fresh menu at Benchmark in Santa Ana. It’s a complete outdoor restaurant in downtown with shareable courses. Ini Ristorante in Fountain Valley is great too. I’ve been at least five times, it’s a Japanese-Italian fusion. Next I’d suggest taking the train either north towards LA or south towards SD. It’s a great source of transportation and a favorite stop of mine is San Juan Capistrano. The old town is super green and creates a safe atmosphere for anyone visiting. LA is cool because it doesn’t seem real. I see well-off people walking their dogs and homeless people with forts all within feet of each other and it’s very thought provoking. I would get tacos at this place called Guisados; if you know you know. Honestly, there’s a lot of random stuff to get into anywhere so everything is an experience really.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

I’m gonna shout out anyone I might have given difficulty in the past that allowed me to be where I am now. I wasn’t always the best and easiest person to be around but had I not had these experiences with some people, I wouldn’t be able to do this interview right now.  Secondly, I’d like to recognize my family for always being laid back and emotionally supportive of me. They worry about my well-being a lot but they also have faith in me that I’ll be ok. Next, I’d like to thank my partner. He has really guided me in a good direction and introduced me to wonderful people along the way. His generosity is unmatched and I’ve appreciated coming across his soul. Lastly I’d like to thank my good friend. Never have I ever met a human being so filled with compassion and empathy towards others. Even though I’ve treated her poor at times she has always reminded me what friendship is and that she will always be there for me to help me through whatever I face. These people have all played significant roles in my life and have made me better not just towards myself, but also others.

Other: Catch me if you can.