Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Lyu
Hi Amy, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hello, my name is Amy Lyu. I was born and raised in South Korea, and in 1992, my family immigrated to the U.S. At the time, I was in my second year of college, studying fine arts in Korea. After moving, I continued my education at OTIS College of Art & Design, where I earned my BFA.
Growing up, art was always a part of me—I never imagined doing anything else. It was my passion and my purpose. However, after graduating, I faced a pivotal moment: I had to decide whether to fully commit to fine art by pursuing a master’s degree or find a way to support myself financially while staying true to my artistic vision. This challenging transition ultimately shaped my journey.
I took a detour from my passion by studying graphic design to secure a job, and I worked as a graphic designer for several years. While this allowed me to build a career, my heart was always with fine art. After getting married and having children, my priorities shifted as I took on various roles while raising my two little ones. Even though I couldn’t fully dedicate myself to art during that time, I never forgot my passion.
Then, during the pandemic and through a series of career changes, I realized how much I truly wanted to pursue what I love—before it was too late. Despite the fear of starting over, I felt an incredible excitement to return to what I do best. I found a studio near my home, picked up my brushes again, and started painting. At the same time, I began teaching art to kids, which has been a fulfilling way to share my passion with the next generation.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My journey has been anything but smooth, but I believe every challenge along the way has shaped me into the artist I am today. One of the biggest struggles I faced was the uncertainty after graduating—having to decide between following my passion for fine art or choosing a more practical path to support myself financially, a dilemma I’m sure many young graduates face. That led me to graphic design, which provided stability, but it always felt like a compromise.
The pandemic became a turning point. It forced me to reevaluate my path and confront the fear of starting over. I had to push past self-doubt and the worry of whether I was making the right decision. Investing in a studio space and dedicating myself to painting again was both exciting and terrifying. However, once I took that leap, I knew in my heart it was the right choice.
Pursuing fine art isn’t always easy—it requires persistence, resilience, and an unwavering belief in yourself, even when the road is uncertain. But despite the struggles, I wouldn’t trade this journey for anything. Every challenge has led me to where I am today, and I’m incredibly grateful to finally be doing what I love.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My artistic journey began at OTIS, where I developed a conceptual and minimalist sculpture practice that invited viewers to engage with time, sensory experience, and the intellectual processes behind the work. While I still love creating conceptual pieces, my current focus is on abstract painting—work that celebrates playfulness and youthfulness through soft, blended colors that evoke warmth, calm, and quiet, yet with a touch of whimsy.
I strive to create a sense of serenity while inviting viewers to reconnect with their own sense of curiosity and play. Inspired by the beauty of everyday, mundane things, I aim to shift their meaning just enough to offer a fresh perspective.
My work encourages people to pause, reflect, and find something unexpected in the familiar.
What sets my work apart is the balance of subtle contrasts—tranquility meets spontaneity, simplicity meets depth. Each piece is a visual exploration that feels both comforting and thought-provoking. More than anything, I hope my art sparks a moment of connection where viewers can immerse themselves in a feeling of lightness and discovery.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Kahlil Gibran stated, “Art is not about accurately depicting the shape of fruit hanging from a tree but about conveying the soul of the tree.” In other words, “The mission of art is to draw out the unfamiliar from the most familiar.” This idea deeply resonates with me, as I strive to bring a fresh perspective to the everyday through my work.
One book that has stuck with me is Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon. It’s a simple yet powerful source of inspiration for artists, offering insights on creativity, originality, and embracing influence in a way that feels freeing rather than intimidating. It reminds me that art is an ongoing conversation and that drawing from different influences is part of the creative process.
Beyond books, my artist colleagues are some of my greatest resources and inspirations. Conversations with fellow artists—sharing ideas, struggles, and breakthroughs—keep me motivated and constantly learning. The creative journey can be isolating at times, so having a community that understands and supports each other is invaluable.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://amylyustudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amylyu_studio/
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/and_studioart/
