Artist Profile | Rebel & Quill

 Caroline Kim is not only a talented artist but also a  mother and owner of the charming and successful Toyshop, Merci Milo. She is driven and inspired by art and those around her. Her authenticity is both comforting and inspiring, and her sense of style and art is flawless.  She is such a gem. 

 

Why do you do what you do?

I have a passion for creating useful and practical objects for the home. I used to create jewelry when I first started R&Q, but as of three years ago, I shifted my perspective from fashion to more of a simple approach.

I felt no longer passionate in the world of fashion, which I rather enjoy from afar. What really motivated me was that I wanted to create meaningful objects that I can use on the daily without prejudice.

Can you share little about your Background? Where does your creativity come from?

I come from a jewelry design background. I have worked for countless corporate companies and it all started when I was extremely over what I was doing for everyone else and wasn't getting that creative satisfaction. I needed a creative outlet somewhere where no opinions mattered, I had creative control and freedom to do whatever I felt connected to. All this creativity I possess comes from within- with inspiration from everyday simple things such as going to the grocery store or even just walking my dog. So much beauty all around in this world..we take advantage of it sometimes.

Can you describe the moment or time when you knew that creating objects was what you wanted to do? How did your passion come to be?

I worked with a showroom when I was based in NYC making jewelry at the time and felt so overwhelmed with the negative energy. It felt as though I had to create jewelry that was sellable not because of just pure artistry. That's when I knew I wanted to create objects that can take the form of an art piece. Since I came from a metal background, I figured why not do what I was doing with jewelry and create home objects that we can use every day.

What’s your favorite artwork?

I love Noguchi. All his artwork.

What kind of routines or rituals do you have?

I cleanse myself every day of just other energy. I start off with a clean slate. It starts with sage, then purified reiki infused spray from paper crane apothecary. It's seriously the best stuff. I clean my home on a daily basis. Whether its the floor or the bathroom, I feel at ease knowing my home is clean..it's sort of therapeutic.

What’s your favorite thing that you created?

I really love the circle round moon hook. It's really simple yet attractive. I love that it is very functional! It holds as many as ten purses on it!

What do you try to communicate through your art/ craft?

I try to communicate simplicity in design and functionality in form.  

What role, in general, do you think artists play in society? What are your thoughts on being an artist in today's world?

I think everyone is somewhat of an artist- everyone has a different way of showing their creations or a work of art. I really love all my artist friends and they really are a source of inspiration.

Is there a creative medium you would like to pursue but have not yet tried?

If I could and if I had the time I would love to create sculptures and paint again. It's so therapeutic and peaceful.

Do you have any advice on how to be more creative? OR overcoming creative blocks?

I say TRAVEL! I love traveling to different cities- different cultures- just taking that all in and coming back home very refreshed and full of inspiration. That always helps when I feel a bit stuck or uninspired!

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

Live in this moment. I have yet to master this.

 

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Images | Profile images courtesy of Caroline Rodrigues, Shop images by Girl & the Abode.