Join Bella Kim in a conversation with June Sekiguchi, artist & arts activist, and Jenna d’Anna, Senior Manager of Museum Education & Community Engagement, about her life as an artist. Currently exhibiting an installation in BIMA’s Beacon Window Gallery, Bella will speak to her being a member of the Korean diaspora community, and how her tradition of “piece it, patch it” developed from the original concept of “common story” or Jogakbo textile work. Ecology and sustainability are strong inspirations for Bella’s work which is made from recycled materials such as plastic mesh produce bags, aluminum snack packaging, and e-commerce mailing envelopes. Audience Q&A and reception to follow.

Guest bio

Bella Kim studied Fiber Art and Design in Korea and actively participated with a fiber artist group and the Korean Craft Council, while also teaching at colleges. After relocating to the United States, she faced the challenge of adapting to a new language and culture while working as a painter at an antique repair store where she also created small accessories. Throughout this journey, she continued to pursue her artistic passion and immersed herself in the new art environment. Ultimately, her exploration of diverse cultures and materials led her to discover her unique artistic interest, inspired by the sewing and resourceful practices of the women in her family during her childhood. After settling in Gig Harbor in 2008, she became a member of the Korean American Artist Association of Washington (KAAW), finding a supportive community with whom she could share her artistic journey. Her artwork has been featured in juried and invitational exhibitions at various galleries in Washington state and her artworks were selected for exhibitions at Bainbridge Island Art Museum, Whatcom Art Museum, and the Northwest Quilt and Fiber Art Museum. Her work is part of the Burke Museum’s Korean Collection and she is an active member of KAAW, NWDC (Northwest Designer Craftartists) and BAC (Bainbridge Island Arts & Crafts).