About the Artist

Joan Kim Suzuki is an Asian-American artist based in New York, known for creating modern interpretations of Asian folk art. With a Korean heritage and a unique perspective shaped by her marriage to a Japanese man, her work blends Korean, Japanese, and American influences, reflecting both personal and cultural narratives. 

Meet Joan Kim Suzuki

Although she began painting during the pandemic and is entirely self-taught, Joan Kim Suzuki’s art has quickly gained widespread recognition. Her pieces have been featured in exhibitions across Long Island, showcased on NBC News and News 12, and highlighted in various publications.

Her work explores themes of identity, tradition, and the evolving nature of cultural expression in a globalized world. The influence of her background is evident in the colors, forms, and symbolism drawn from her Korean roots, while her exposure to Japanese aesthetics and her American experience bring a fresh, cross-cultural perspective to her pieces. She specializes in creating modern interpretations of traditional Korean folk art (Minhwa), mixed-media art, and Japanese woodblock prints.

Recognized Artist & Curator

Joan’s caliber as an artist is backed by rigorous institutional validation. She is a two-time recipient of the prestigious NYSCA Community Arts Grant (2023 and 2025) and has been selected multiple times to exhibit at the Heckscher Museum Biennial (2024 and 2026).

Beyond her personal studio practice, Joan is an active leader in the local arts community. She served as the curator for the United Asian American Alliance's annual art exhibition for three years, managing shows at Huntington Town Hall, Babylon Town Hall, and the Cinema Arts Centre. She has also participated in the Patchogue Arts Council's MOCA Lights building projections and exhibited in the Westbury Arts group show "That was then, this is now."

Educator & Community Advocate

In addition to her artistic practice, Joan is passionate about community engagement and education. She has worked with the Heckscher Museum of Art, multiple art councils, and teaches workshops at local libraries, including Syosset Library and Jericho Library. As an instructor, she teaches diverse workshops for both adults and children—from paper lantern decoupage to folding rainbow origami stars—guiding her students to embrace creativity without fear of perfection. She encourages them to enjoy the creative process just as much as the outcome.

Whether through her intimate studio practice, public exhibitions, or teaching, Joan continues to foster an environment where art transcends boundaries and empowers others to explore their own creativity.