North Shore Volunteer Spotlight: Michelle Kim

After searching for art related volunteer opportunities online last January, Michelle Kim reached out to join the North Shore. She has been a lovely presence in our studio ever since. Bringing a fresh young perspective and thoughtful attitude, Michelle works as an artist mentor every Monday afternoon while balancing a full-time school schedule. Michelle shares common core values with the Arts of Life including art and creativity along with building relationships to support a kinder world. We are happy to support her goals in art and occupational therapy while growing our friendship with Michelle! Please enjoy an interview with Michelle Kim and North Shore artist Nikole Heusman.

NH: How did you hear about the Arts of Life?

MK: I first heard about Arts of Life initially through a website called VolunteerMatch. I was looking for places related to art that I could volunteer. I have a really big interest in the arts and I love art making I think it’s really fun and interesting. I was trying to see if there were any opportunities to meet new people and explore my creative side a bit more as well.

NH: Did you know any of the artists before starting?

MK: No I actually didn’t know any of you. I met you guys for the first time it was really fun and exciting, I was nervous. You all were really really nice so thank you. What do you like most about the Arts of Life?I think it’s me being able to be with you guys while you all are making different works of art also seeing different mediums being used. I never really saw people using glass and painting on it. You did that a lot and that was really cool for me to see. Also the sense of community, you guys are all friends and really support each other.

NH: What do you like most about being in the studio environment?

MK: Being able to witness the behind the scenes of you making your art. Being a part of the award show, you’re all there and you’re presenting your work to everyone. That’s really cool. Then being in the studio while you’re making that work. That’s something really cool and not a lot of people get to witness the art being made. I think that would be one of my favorite things. What kind of work do you look to do when you are here?The main thing is being able to be there, help you when you need it and support you guys. I think that’s one of the biggest things that you emphasize in this space, a sense of community working together, being there, being friends and just being nice in general. I think all of that comes into me wanting to support that. I want everyone to do their best both creatively and also socially as well.

NH: Are you an artist? If so what kind of art do you do?

MK: I am definitely not a professional artist, it would be pretty cool if I was. I just really enjoy art as a hobby. It was always my favorite subject and something I would look forward to. I guess when I do make art it’s mostly in the form of sketches or drawings mainly. I’ve done a couple paintings. Usually my art making is for gifts for other people. I like working on it and then personalizing it.

NH: Do you have a favorite artist?

MK: Oh that’s hard, I have a lot. I think my most favorite artist is Van Gogh, Claude Monet and also Dhali, which is very interesting. Just a couple.

NH: What do you do when you are not in the Arts of Life.

MK:Well mainly I’m a full-time student, so I’m going to school. I also participate in various other community projects with my school and also just spending a lot of time with family and friends. I just feel like that’s always an important thing, especially during the break when I’m not in school.

NH: Thanks for your time!