HEATseeker
Hyungi Park

Fly By Jing is celebrating AAPI Heritage Month with a new HEATSEEKERS series, where we highlight innovators generating exciting energy across diverse realms. Keep following for more kindred spirits who embody the hustle and bustle of RÉ NAO 热闹

In Hyungi Park's studio, the intoxicating aroma of history lingers. Hyungi has cultivated a modern practice that pays homage to incense and its traditional use in religious ceremonies, medicine, and daily life. All her natural incense is made with intention and by hand, a process she graciously shares in workshops across the country. Meet Hyungi, a multi-talented artist and educator who brings curiosity and excitement to her evolving practice.

What has recently inspired you that you weren’t expecting?

My mother - we’ve been rekindling our relationship and every time we speak, I am so inspired and in awe of her. She works at a library and puts on a lot of the public programs, teaches workshops, and has been exploring 3D printing. I’m finding we’re a lot more similar than I thought.

Give me your hottest take about the tattoo industry?

It’s hard work, honestly the hardest job I’ve ever had, but also can be the most rewarding- I’ve made lots of meaningful connections through such an intimate practice.

Who fuels you to do your work?

It used to be my parents, in that I would prove them wrong by thriving in the life I chose, but now it’s for myself. I want to challenge myself and grow everyday to be the best version of myself.

Tell me about a life experience that expanded your mind?

I studied sculpture in art school, afterwards I traveled for 13 months applying for artist residencies, grants, and shows and lived nomadically. I had to navigate so many new experiences- good and bad, nothing can replace that time and I’m grateful for how it’s shaped me and how I approach life.

Describe a meal that changed your life

I had the privilege of enjoying a dinner by Nanoom Dining, it was incredibly thoughtful and intricate. It’s someone who I can call a friend, and felt so cared for in a meal- which was not only physically nourishing but emotionally as well.

What are you hoping to spark with your work?

Curiosity and excitement, I work in incense and teach workshops, I hope that people are just as curious and excited to get to know more about incense and the history/traditions as it informs a lot of my work.

What is a place that grounds you?

Home- meaning the space I’ve created for myself to recharge. I never really attributed a location as “home” for me, so home has always been the world I imagine.

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