ChanMi J.

Today, artist ChanMi speaks to us about her fascinating childhood, she shares her beautiful art, how God makes all things new and how obedience has led her to a life beyond what she imagined. There is so much inspiration here for an aspiring artist, and truly, for all. It’s an honor to have ChanMi with us!

Tell us a bit about how you grew up and your childhood: I was born in Seoul, South Korea, into a young pastor’s family who had just planted a church. I spent my childhood days playing, reading, writing, singing, and creating. When I look back, creativity has been a big and natural part of my childhood. Looking back, I realize that creativity played a significant and innate role in shaping my early years. I found joy in various forms of creation – crafting poetry, drawing intricate designs, repurposing recycled boxes into art, and composing songs. I wrote my first song on the piano when I was 7. I think it went something like, ‘I wonder who is in heaven… Noah? David?…’ My grandfather was a traditional calligraphy artist. So I also spent a great chunk of time in his art studio playing and learning from him. I loved smelling the ink and papers. I loved watching him create. And I loved making strokes with my own brushes for hours. Sadly, my time with him was cut short when he passed away during my 4th grade.

Yet, my passion for art endured, and I soon began learning from a talented and disabled oil painter who, for a couple of years, became my cherished art teacher. Her art studio, filled with beautiful artwork and accompanied by the melodious strains of classical music, became my sanctuary – my ‘happy place.’ Exploring the world of watercolors and brushes under her guidance brought me profound satisfaction.

You are an extremely talented artist. When did you begin your art journey? Growing up in Seoul, where academic and professional success were highly emphasized by nearly everyone, I didn’t initially pursue art as my dream or career during my teenage and young adult years. As a teenager, preparing for the national college entrance exam, I felt the pressure to get into the best university in Korea and choose the most “respectable” field of study. Being ambitious, driven, and academically successful, I aspired to contribute to solving the world’s prominent issues by working for the United Nations (I know, quite ambitious).

However, I eventually pursued English and Spanish as my majors at Korea University. I had the opportunity to intern at the Korean Embassy in Washington D.C. and later earned a master’s degree in Intercultural Communications from the University of Pennsylvania. For several years, I served as an instructor and intercultural communication specialist at a non-profit organization in Philadelphia, working with refugees, immigrants, and marginalized populations. While simultaneously attending a seminary for an M.Div. degree, I felt a calling to ministry, leading me to work on staff at a local church, where I served college students and young adults for about half a decade.

Then, in 2015, my husband and I welcomed our first child, Chaya. Initially, I struggled to find the right “balance” between ministry and motherhood. However, through a period of challenging adjustments to motherhood, I felt God’s calling to step back from ministry and fully dedicate myself to being present for my daughter in 2017. This personal decision was particularly challenging for someone like me, who is naturally driven and enjoys achieving goals, even in ministry. However, this turning point marked the moment when I picked up my paintbrushes after a hiatus of about 20 years.

Until that point, art had been dormant in my life, despite my profound love for it. It remained a side “hobby” that I would revisit occasionally when time allowed. During my baby’s nap time, I began dedicating small pockets of creative time to paint simple things like flowers and greenery, experiencing the joy of creating once again, akin to the joy I felt as a child. In those little corners of creating, God gently met and ministered to me. In 2018, I started sharing my art on social media under the name “ChanMi’s Art Journey” as a way to encourage others. My craft evolved, and people responded positively to both my art and the message it conveyed. In 2021, I decided to take a leap of faith and work on my own site to fully embrace and share the gift God had bestowed upon me. Around the same time, I felt called to step out of my comfort zone and explore abstract art. By faithfully following this calling, I experienced immense joy and freedom in my creative process. My art continued to grow, and I received invitations to participate in various contemporary art exhibitions and collaborate with other creative spaces using my art and writing. My art and poems have been published in magazines and showcased in numerous places worldwide, including NYC, Italy, and Japan.

This incredible journey can only be understood through the lens of faith. God initiated this path long ago, perhaps even when I was a child in my mother’s womb. He has brought me back to the joy of creating again in my 30s. Through my art, I now have the privilege of communicating God’s love and grace to a global audience. Truly, it is all by God’s grace, and I am certain there is still much more in store for both me and my art.

“In those little corners of creating, God gently met and ministered to me.”

Inspiring biblical passage of the moment: One verse that continuously fuels my spirit is Philippians 1:6 (NIV), which says, “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” This powerful affirmation keeps me going, knowing that God has initiated a good work in both you and me. Regardless of how things may appear at present or how we may feel, I find unwavering assurance in the fact that God will faithfully bring His work to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Our confidence rests in this truth, knowing that He is not only the author but also the perfector of our journey. In times of doubt or uncertainty, we can lean on Him, for He will carry us through.

Another verse that profoundly influences my art journey is found in Revelation 21:5, where Jesus declares, “I am making everything new!” This revelation serves as the foundation of my creative expression. Although our physical eyes may not always perceive it amidst our current circumstances, Jesus is actively renewing all things. And we are not mere spectators; we are invited to join Him in this transformative process. As His followers, we are called to partner with Him in making all things new, bringing a touch of heaven wherever we are and in whatever we do. This truth inspires my art to reflect the beauty of God’s ongoing work of renewal, even in the midst of a world that might sometimes seem broken or stagnant. Embracing this divine calling brings purpose and depth to my artistic endeavors, as I seek to participate in the redemptive narrative woven by the hands of our loving Creator.

“As His followers, we are called to partner with Him in making all things new, bringing a touch of heaven wherever we are and in whatever we do.”

Spiritual growth focus at the moment: My current focus on spiritual growth centers around the concept of “sowing.” I often liken my art to “seeds” of the gospel, understanding that each piece has the potential to touch different hearts at various times. As I create, my purpose is to communicate heavenly, timeless, and life-giving messages, and I sense the Lord urging me to continue sowing faithfully. I recognize that the impact of these seeds may not be immediately evident, but I hold on to the assurance that God, as the Lord of the harvest, will bring forth a bountiful yield through my faithful sowing. So, I persist in sowing the seeds of God’s truth, trusting that they will take root, grow, and eventually bear abundant fruit in His perfect timing.

How do you pick the themes and sort of messaging you transmit through your art collections? What is that process like? My art collection themes often emerge from the “recurring” experiences in my walk with God. During my creative time, I find a deep communion with Him as I invite Him into the painting process, and together, we bring my art to life. Through these artistic moments, God reveals specific themes and messages meant to encourage not only myself but also others.

For instance, the “Imperfect Splendor,” “Heart Garden,” and “Great Delight” art collections were born from these intimate times with God. In the process of creating the “Imperfect Splendor” Art Collection, I discovered how God delights in His beloved children, recognizing that we may be imperfect, yet splendid in His eyes. His grace embraces us fully, inviting us to be transparent in His presence without fear of judgment, for He adores His imperfect children and desires to be our source of strength and healing.

On other occasions, I venture into exploring diverse painting techniques, and in those moments, God reveals profound insights about His heart. Both the “Boundless” and “Water of Life” collections were inspired by such revelations. While experimenting with drip techniques, God unveiled the boundlessness of His love for us, illustrating how liberating it is to dwell in His endless affection. Similarly, when I delved into creating water-themed fluid art pieces, I was moved to share the message of God’s living water – a steadfast, purifying, ever-satisfying, and life-giving source that sustains us throughout our journey.

Through these artistic expressions, my art becomes a conduit for God’s messages, touching hearts, and spreading His love, grace, and truth to all who encounter it. As I continue to explore and engage in creative communion with God, I eagerly anticipate the unveiling of new themes and divine revelations that will inspire both myself and those who behold my art.

“His grace embraces us fully, inviting us to be transparent in His presence without fear of judgment, for He adores His imperfect children and desires to be our source of strength and healing.”

What advice would you give a young woman who is interested in art? I wholeheartedly encourage you to “go for it.” Each time I engage in the creative process, I discover and deepen my understanding of God in profound and refreshing ways. Many of us know God as our Savior, but we sometimes overlook the aspect of God as the Creator, relegating it to a “minor” role. Yet, in Genesis 1, we encounter God as the Creator, the first aspect revealed to us. As we are made in His image, we, too, reflect this Creative God through our own creativity. The beauty of creativity lies in the fact that its depths often remain undiscovered until we begin to use it. It may initially feel daunting or even scary to venture into uncharted artistic territories, but I urge you to step out in faith, embracing the innocence of a child who loves to create with colors and lines. Even now, in my artistic journey, I continue to take steps of faith with each painting, witnessing my faith being strengthened in the process.

Remember, there’s no need for a special painting class or a perfect setup to create. You can start right where you are, armed with nothing more than a simple piece of paper and a pencil. Embrace the joy of bringing something new into existence, knowing that in the act of creation, you draw closer to the heart of the Creator Himself. It is in this creative expression that we truly connect with our Creator, experiencing a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment in our faith journey. So, I encourage you to embrace your creative side, to explore the depths of your artistic potential, and to revel in the joy of being a co-creator with the One who made the universe.

When did you first encounter God and how did you encounter Him? Pinpointing the exact moment of my first encounter with God is challenging. Growing up as a pastor’s child within the church, I always felt the comforting, joy-giving, and loving presence of God surrounding me from an early age. However, it wasn’t until I embarked on a journey to study abroad in the United States during my junior year in college that I truly claimed my faith as my own, separate from my parents’ beliefs. Being away from home and the familiar, God met me in a deeply personal way, engaging with me on a one-on-one level.

During this transformative time, God revealed the depths of my brokenness and unveiled the layers of my own sins. It was a profound revelation, one that showed me my great need for Jesus’ grace and forgiveness. Yet, in the midst of my imperfections, God also revealed His redeeming grace and unconditional love, offering me a glimmer of hope and a place of rest.

In that moment of clarity and vulnerability, my faith took on a new dimension. I began to understand that God’s grace extended beyond mere theology or tradition; it was an intensely personal and intimate connection with my Creator. This encounter allowed me to establish a profound relationship with God, based not solely on my upbringing but on my own genuine belief and acceptance of His love and mercy. It was a turning point that solidified my faith as my own, transforming my walk with God into a deeper and more authentic journey.

How would you describe Jesus? Jesus is not only my redeemer but also my steadfast friend, the lover of my soul, and the author and perfector of my journey.

How has your relationship with Him changed you? In the past, I was a driven and ambitious young woman, yearning to make a significant impact on the world through grand and noble endeavors. My focus was fixated on achieving what I believed to be “necessary” for the kingdom of God, often sidelining my creative inclinations as seemingly less important. However, everything changed when I encountered Jesus, who revealed His unconditional love for me.

Since then, I have been on a journey of learning to abide in Him, embracing how God uniquely fashioned and formed me. Through this process, I discovered that God graciously bestowed upon me creative gifts, intended for His kingdom’s purposes. Now, I strive to be a faithful steward of these gifts, cherishing the role they play in serving God’s plans.

As I shift my focus from self-driven pursuits to embracing God’s design for my life, I find rest and joy in His sovereignty, faithfulness, and purpose. It is in surrendering to His will that I experience true fulfillment and contentment. The journey of knowing Jesus has transformed my perspective, allowing me to recognize the beauty and significance of every aspect of my life, including the creative side that I once overlooked.

“The journey of knowing Jesus has transformed my perspective, allowing me to recognize the beauty and significance of every aspect of my life, including the creative side that I once overlooked.”

What has been the darkest time in your life, and how did you see God in it? The darkest time in my life occurred after we had a miscarriage following the birth of our first daughter, and during a high-risk pregnancy with our son. Dealing with the pain and suffering from the miscarriage was a challenging and prolonged journey. However, amidst the sorrow, I came to realize that God empathizes and suffers alongside us in our deepest sorrows. Though we may not comprehend all the “whys” in this earthly life, I found solace in knowing that God walks with us in our suffering, carrying our burdens and offering comfort and strength.

Later, during my pregnancy with my son, we faced an unsettling revelation at 20 weeks when we were informed that the baby might arrive prematurely and could face potential challenges. Doctors recommended intervention surgery and extended bed rest to minimize risks. This testing time profoundly tested my faith, and I questioned why such circumstances were unfolding. Yet, in the midst of uncertainty, God reassured me time and again of His goodness, mercy, and sovereignty.

Despite the odds, and to the astonishment of doctors, my son arrived just three days past his due date! Witnessing this miracle, I experienced firsthand the immense power and presence of God during that season. It reinforced my faith and reaffirmed God’s faithfulness and divine intervention in the most challenging circumstances.

In the darkest moments of my life, I learned that even amid pain and uncertainty, God remains a steadfast and compassionate companion. He carries us through our struggles, offering hope and peace in the midst of trials. Through these difficult experiences, I found a deeper connection with God, one that continues to strengthen my faith and trust in His unwavering love and guidance.

What has helped you grow spiritually in this season? The season of life I find myself in is abundant and hectic as I nurture my young, vibrant children. With the demands of motherhood, I’ve had to adapt my approach to walking with God. Though I no longer have extended hours for Bible reading and prayer like I did before having children, I’ve discovered the art of connecting with God throughout the day.

To keep God’s Word close to my heart, I now prioritize scripture memorization, ensuring that His truths stay with me in the midst of my busy schedule. Throughout the day, I seize any available 5-minute pockets of quiet time to anchor my heart in God’s love and truth, allowing me to stay connected with Him.

Even in the midst of my daily tasks, I’ve found that singing worship songs while driving the kids or doing dishes has an incredible power to revive my soul. These simple moments of praise and gratitude become a sacred act of worship, reinforcing my bond with God throughout the day.

However, it is through painting that I experience a profound communion with God. My creative time becomes a sanctuary where I communicate and draw near to Him. Through this form of artistic expression, I find strength and nourishment for my walk with God.

Despite the busyness that surrounds me, I have learned to embrace these various ways of staying connected with God in the midst of motherhood. Each moment of worship, prayer, and creative expression serves to deepen my relationship with Him, reminding me that even in the busiest of seasons, I can continually walk hand in hand with my Creator.

Top three essentials: Rest. Work out. Go out in nature and behold the beauty of God.

How did God speak to you recently? Throughout every chapter and corner of my life, God has been gently reminding me of His unwavering trustworthiness. Though I have witnessed His power in countless ways, there are moments when fears attempt to creep in. Yet, every time I feel the unsettling knock of fear, God’s reassuring voice speaks to my heart, “My goodness and mercy will faithfully accompany you all the days of your life. So place your trust in me. Continue following the guiding light of my love, for it is steadfast and true.”

Hobby: I find immense joy in visiting gardens where I witness the breathtaking beauty of God’s creations. One particular local garden has become a frequent escape for me, and even with each visit, I continue to discover new plants and flowers that I had never seen before. It never ceases to amaze me how God’s creativity is effortlessly displayed in every color, texture, and shape found within these wondrous creations.

Being surrounded by such magnificent displays of God’s artistry opens my mind to new possibilities and ignites a fervent passion within me to create. The garden serves as a constant reminder of the boundless creativity of our Creator, inspiring me to channel that creative energy into my own artistic pursuits. With every visit, I am drawn closer to the source of all inspiration, and I leave with a heart full of gratitude and wonder for the remarkable beauty that fills our world.

Top three practical tips for staying spiritually strong:

1. Speak God’s Truth Aloud: Declare the truth of God over your heart, mind, and soul by audibly speaking His Word. When we proclaim His truth with our own mouths, it carries a powerful effect of breaking the grip of lies and half-truths. This can involve reciting Bible verses aloud or singing biblically-based praise songs, which helps to reinforce our spiritual foundation.

2. Nourish Your Physical Body: Caring for our physical well-being is essential for maintaining spiritual strength. A malnourished, exhausted, or inactive body can negatively impact our mental and emotional state. Prioritize good sleep, engage in regular exercise, and consume nourishing, wholesome meals. Remember, physical, mental, and spiritual health are interconnected, and it is crucial to steward each aspect with equal dedication and faithfulness as they are gifts from God.

3. Cultivate Uplifting Friendships: Surround yourself with a few godly friends who will uplift and support you in times of trial and need. Just like the friends in Luke 5 who lowered their paralyzed companion to be healed by Jesus, we all need friends who will be there for us in our darkest moments. Invest time and intention in nurturing these godly friendships, and be willing to be vulnerable with one another. Be available and ready to lift them up in their times of need as well. These friends can be a source of strength and encouragement, especially during times when you find it hard to pray on your own. Having friends you can turn to and say, “I need your prayers right now” can make a significant difference in your spiritual journey.

Favorite person in Scripture? Apart from Jesus, many figures in Scripture resonate with me, but one person stands out: Joseph from the book of Genesis. His journey is nothing short of dramatic and captivating. I admire how God faithfully carried him through the ups and downs of life.

Joseph’s story begins with his own jealous brothers selling him into slavery, leading him to an unforeseen life in Egypt. Despite these hardships, God’s favor shone through in everything Joseph did, even while serving in Potiphar’s house. However, he faced false accusations and ended up in prison for years.

Throughout his trials, Joseph’s unwavering trust in God allowed him to rise to prominence, interpreting Pharaoh’s perplexing dreams and becoming a key figure in Egypt’s planning. When a severe famine hit, Joseph’s own brothers sought help, unknowingly seeking aid from the very person they once betrayed.

I’m drawn to Joseph’s journey because, like us, he was a flawed individual who encountered challenging seasons. Yet, through it all, God’s sovereignty was evident in every twist and turn. He transformed Joseph, instilling him with compassion, forgiveness, and humility.

Joseph’s story serves as a reminder that God’s hand is at work in every aspect of our lives, even in the most difficult circumstances. Through our trials and triumphs, God molds us into better versions of ourselves, just as He did with Joseph. His transformative power can turn our hardships into opportunities for growth, compassion, and forgiveness, leading us on a path of humility and deeper reliance on Him.

What do you want people to learn about God when they look at you? Through my journey, I strive to be a living testimony of God’s love, demonstrating that no one is beyond His reach and no heart is too shattered for His healing touch. My hope is that others will be inspired to seek God’s abundant love, grace, and joy, and experience the transformative power of His presence in their lives. I want everyone to know that with God, the possibilities are limitless, and a life lived in Christ is a life lived in the fullness of His boundless love, both in the present and for all eternity.

How do you engage with your community? My approach to engaging with my community revolves around fostering authentic, meaningful relationships. It’s not uncommon for church-goers to become so engrossed in their own church events and personal endeavors that they unintentionally disconnect from the very community they are meant to illuminate with the light of Jesus. Inspired by the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10, I believe we are called to emulate the compassion and selflessness of the Samaritan man.

Rather than rushing through life, I strive to take the time to genuinely connect with my neighbors. I believe that being a beacon of Jesus’ love means more than merely attending church events; it means investing in the lives of those around us. By stopping to ask caring questions and showing sincere interest in the lives of my community members, I hope to touch their hearts in a meaningful way.

I must admit, I am not always perfect in this endeavor, but I consciously strive to remember the significance of building real connections with others. I also seek to lead by example for my children, demonstrating the value of compassion and genuine care for those in our community. My hope is that through these intentional efforts, I can contribute to creating a more compassionate and loving community where Jesus’ light shines brightly through our actions and interactions.

Thing you want to raise awareness about: Lately, I find myself repeatedly drawn to the idea of placing my trust and finding rest in God’s magnificent and distinctive design for each of our lives. God’s creative process is not like that of a cookie cutter; it’s one of extraordinary craftsmanship. He fearfully and wonderfully molds us individually, as Psalm 139:14 beautifully proclaims, fashioning each of us into a unique masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10).

In a world dominated by social media, it becomes all too easy to compare ourselves to others who appear to possess success, beauty, and everything we yearn for. However, God desires us to trust in His amazing and sovereign plans for our lives. He has begun a good work in each of us (Philippians 1:6) and will carry it through to completion in His perfect timing and according to His divine purpose.

Engaging in comparisons often grieves God’s heart. Instead, when we place our trust in His exclusive purpose and design for our lives, we can find true rest in the knowledge that He is at work, even in our imperfections. Letting go of comparisons allows us to embrace the unique journey God has crafted for us. As we surrender to His plan, we can experience the profound peace and assurance that come from knowing we are walking in His purpose, exactly where He intends us to be.

“God’s creative process is not like that of a cookie cutter; it’s one of extraordinary craftsmanship.”

What does your morning routine consist of? First thing, I read the daily verse by YouVersion as soon as I open my eyes (along with the weather) before getting up from the bed to ground my heart in truth. Then I go to my coffee maker and push the button to make a fresh cup of coffee with the coffee grounds I ground the night before. I hug my daughter, who is usually up before me. I check on our plants on our balcony and breathe in some fresh air. Then I’m busy making breakfast and getting the kids ready for the day.

What is on your nightstand? On my nightstand, you’ll find my planner, 5-year prayer journal, Kindle, a couple of books I’m currently reading, my sleep mask, and a water bottle. 

For more ChanMi:

IG: Chanmisartjourney

Until next time, keep witnessing!

XX