Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Kim.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Creativity has always been a big part of my life. In high school, I studied interior design, later earned a degree in art history, and spent years exploring different hands-on crafts like photography, painting, and crochet. I was always curious about how things were made—and I found joy in making them myself.
I discovered glass art during the pandemic, a time when I, like many others, was searching for something grounding and meaningful. I was drawn in by countless YouTube videos exploring stained glass—its process and craftsmanship, history, and delicate nature. At first, it was just a fascination, but I found myself yearning to create my own pieces. Stained glass can be an expensive craft, so I never imagined I’d be able to dive in—until I stumbled upon an estate sale where, for just $25, I acquired a box full of stained glass supplies. It felt like a sign, and I embraced the challenge of working with such a fragile yet mesmerizing medium.
In the years that followed, I grew my collection of tools, found deals where I could, and kept my passion alive despite life pulling me in different directions. Eventually, I moved into a larger space and found myself in a job that gave me the stability to invest in my creative pursuits. That’s when I took a glass fusing workshop at a local stained glass shop—an experience that reignited my love for the medium. That moment proved to be a pivotal step in my journey, and things just took off from there.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s been a journey with its fair share of challenges, but I’ve come to appreciate how much timing and serendipity shaped my path. I got lucky early on with that box of supplies, and over time found ways to build up what I needed—piece by piece. There were moments when I had to pause due to life circumstances, or times when it felt hard to stay consistent. Looking back, it’s a reminder that while effort and passion carry us forward, there’s also an undeniable rhythm to life, aligning things in ways we only fully understand in hindsight.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I work with glass using a process called glass fusing (not to be confused with glass blowing). I specialize in functional home decor—coasters, incense holders, catch-all trays, soap dishes, and more—designed with a focus on color, detail, and personality. I often observe my surroundings to gain inspiration and ideas for new projects. My background in interior design and art history informs my decision-making, but sometimes I make things just for fun, without overthinking it.
I was first known for my olive and pickle coasters, but in late 2024, my floral nightlights became a breakout item. They were featured in the L.A. Times Holiday Gift Guide, which was an incredible honor.
Of all my work, I’m especially proud of my cuckoo clock—it’s my most ambitious piece to date. I also love making custom business card holders; it’s always exciting to design around someone’s brand colors and personality.
While glasswork is growing in popularity, I still don’t see it nearly as often as ceramics or jewelry at markets. Even when there are other glass artists, our styles tend to be really different. That’s part of what helps me stand out.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I’ve recently started a new job and due to my limited capacity, I’m moving at more of a snail’s pace these days! That said, I’m always happy to chat about fun ideas and potential collaborations—even if things take a while to unfold.
For support, you can stop by 6th & Detroit, a vintage shop in Long Beach, and purchase my work there. I’m also preparing to sell my work at another retailer, but that is yet to be announced!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mindtolight.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindtolight
- Other: [email protected]
Image Credits
The two photos of myself in my studio were taken by Michelle Raymundo.
