Sophia Kim’s Sci-Fi Inspired Paintings Come to the Akin Vitrine Gallery
Image Description: Sophia Kim’s paintings installed in the Akin Vitrine Gallery. The white walls of the vitrine hold detailed, photorealist paintings depicting scenes from Dune, Lord of the Rings, Arrival and Star Wars. On the white ground of the vitrine are small cards depicting characters from Riot Games' League of Legends.
Swing by the Akin Vitrine Gallery to be transported by the visceral paintings of Sophia Kim. Sophia’s art brings a photo-realistic touch to Sci-Fi classics; Lord of the Rings, Arrival, Dune, Star Wars, and more. The Akin Vitrine Gallery is viewable from the street 24/7 at the Akin St Clair studio, 1747 St Clair Ave West. The exhibition is on now until the end of September, so be sure to check it out before it's gone!
Read on to hear more about Sophia’s process and inspiration.
Image Description: Sophia Kim standing in front of the Akin Vitrine Gallery during installation. She has long brown hair and wears glasses, a blue shirt and black trousers. Beside her, on the door of the vitrine, are intricate paintings depicting Rivendell from Lord of the Rings, and Darth Vader from Star Wars.
“My name is Sophia Kim, and I'm an artist originally from Korea who moved to Canada in 2024. Specializing in oil and acrylic painting, my work spans a variety of genres, including character design and backgrounds for film, TV, and animation. I'm interested in abstract art as well. With a deep appreciation for landscape painting, I am currently exploring ways to blend traditional Korean art with Western painting techniques. My exploration of cultural fusion in visual storytelling reflects both a respect for heritage and an interest in pushing artistic boundaries.”
Akin: What are you curious about right now?
Sophia Kim: The Korean traditional style.
Akin: Do you have a studio routine, i.e. are you a daily ritual person or are you project-focused in spurts?
SK: No, I recently got busy at work. So I'll try to make time for art.
Akin: Do you have creative prompts or habits to help you get started? Any self-care tips to share?
SK: I read a lot of books and often walk to clear my thoughts. Recently, I read a book called The Artist's Way, and while following its advice, I found myself walking and listening to my inner voice. It seems like a great method of meditation.
Akin: Are you reading/listening to/watching anything right now which is inspiring you? If so, how?
SK: Reading books, watching movies, and listening to music are always sources of inspiration for me. Lately, I’ve been taking a short break.
Akin: What does your Akin studio mean to you?
SK: Akin is a precious workspace that gives small artists the courage to make things happen and take on challenges. I’m truly grateful.
Akin: What advice would you tell your younger self about creating art? What have you learned?
SK: Don't stop, keep doing what you are doing!
See more of Sophia’s work on instagram @sophiakimw.art or at www.sophiakimw.com