Magazine
A legacy-driven media platform documenting Korean excellence in culture, economy, and identity
Interview by Hyosena Hur - Editor
Valery Jung Estabrook, a Korean-American artist, explores culture and the human condition through media and installation art. Estabrook, fueled by her life experiences and identity, aspires to inspire viewers to reflect on their own lives and project themselves through her work. With her background in video production and fine arts, her creations uniquely blend proficiency and passion, offering a distinct artistic landscape. More than just an artist, she emerges as an interdisciplinary creator.
"Hello, I'm Valery Jung Estabrook, an artist. I was born in Florida and raised with my brother on an Asian pear farm in Virginia. Life on the orchard shaped my identity, feeling special due to our unique Korean family in a town with no other Koreans. Our food and the fruit we cultivated set us apart, and I always felt our family represented Korea to others despite having grown up in the U.S.
After high school in Virginia, I pursued art at Brown University, focusing on documentary video production. Post-graduation, I ventured into video/television production in New York and even started a small production company in Brooklyn. Although I enjoyed my work, I yearned to showcase my creations, which led me to a master's degree in painting at Brooklyn College. Since then, I have had opportunities to exhibit my works through various galleries."
"Even though I stepped away from documentary video production, I remain fascinated by untold personal stories and experiences, often incorporating video in my projects. My work can be termed 'multi-disciplinary'—capable of expression through any medium or format. Each piece is a project with its own narrative, shaped by the concept.
The materials I use may vary, but video remains crucial to conveying my story to the audience. While interpretations may differ, these diverse interactions enrich my art, reflecting the varied experiences viewers bring."
"Currently, I'm delving into Korean traditional Gache and Hanbok, intertwining these elements in a sculpture-video project. After my father passed away, spending more time with my mother and her friends, I felt a cultural shift towards my Korean roots. My recent works encapsulate this period of self-discovery post my father's death.
My mother introduced me to treasured family artifacts—paintings by my grandfather, intricate embroidery, sculptures, and clothing—which inspired my research into Hanbok and Gache."
"My art heavily draws from personal experiences, primarily focusing on Korean-American identity. Reflecting on America's recent political climate prompted introspection about being American and bridging the gap between my Korean heritage and American identity.
My projects explore the experiences of Asian-Americans who might feel out of place here, though I believe this theme won't be eternal as we witness significant growth within the community over the years. I'm curious about how future generations will narrate these topics."
"I haven’t lived in Korea but visited twice: once during summer as a teenager, and more recently for a week. Experiencing new cultures excites me, and given the opportunity, I'd love to live in Korea for an extended period—to improve my Korean and connect deeply with my heritage."
"Most of my family resides in the U.S., though some relatives, including my brother, Argus Paul, a photographer, live in Korea. He has been there for nine years now."
"I love New York, yet after a decade, the city's demands for more income and the stress took a toll. I yearned for a change, with New Mexico's vast desert landscapes alluring me. The artistic community here is incredible, providing a more balanced work-life experience. It allows me to recharge and focus on my art."
"My studio time varies from leisurely research days—exercising, reading, sketching—to focused days intensely dedicated to creating art.
In the future, I hope to exhibit at major biennales, secure museum acquisitions, and receive renowned awards. Yet, I remind myself not to measure success solely by these achievements. Ultimately, my goal is to connect emotionally with people through my art, as public interaction and resonating with viewers offer the greatest satisfaction and accomplishment."
"I'm grateful to begin teaching at the University of New Mexico this fall. Additionally, I will be an artist-in-residence at esteemed institutions like the Vermont Studio Center and Michigan State University in 2020, eager to grow further in my artistic journey. Thank you for the opportunity to share my story through this interview."
Valery Jung Estabrook
Graduating from Brown University and obtaining her master's in painting from Brooklyn College, Estabrook's works have been showcased in New York, Los Angeles, and Melbourne. In 2018, she received the Grand Prize from the Al Foundation, enhancing her standing as a Korean-American artist. Currently, she continues her dynamic artistic endeavors in New Mexico.
