Conversations with Sumin Ha

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sumin Ha.

Hi Sumin, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
The beginning of my art is not dramatic at all. It was a small class. Like any ambitious Korean parent, my mom wanted me to be a student who was good at all this and that, and I went to an art and music academy as well as an Algebra or Literature and English academy. I gave up music early, but I liked art academy very much, and it was my favorite memory at that time to draw freely at an art academy after Algebra or literature was over. Drawing freely after academic sessions became a cherished memory, fueling my decision to apply for a specialized middle school and eventually enroll in an art high school. Through this trajectory, I naturally gravitated toward a major in art during my college.

My journey up to this point was smooth and peaceful. A pivotal moment unfolded in the last semester of my college education when granted the freedom to choose any project for graduation, I delved into creating my own Westeros, inspired by my love for Game of Thrones. It was a massive war between six wizard families and six soldier families. My professor dismissed my concept as childish and mentioned it looked like an animation or a game for kids. It was a humiliation. But It was at that moment that I discovered my true calling – the desire to craft animations and games. This realization prompted me to redirect my trajectory, steering away from the traditional path of fine art.

Subsequently, I embarked on a new chapter at CalArts, essentially my second college experience. Despite the challenges of competing with younger peers and adapting to different artistic styles, I found unparalleled joy in the process. The pressure and stress of my current endeavors at CalArts pale in comparison to my earlier experiences, yet my motivation and happiness have soared to new heights.

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?
As mentioned earlier, animation was my second major, and CalArts is my second college. When I graduated from my first university, I had a good job offer, and a stable future was guaranteed. And when I gave them up and started doing a much more unstable and competitive field: animation, this decision was met with skepticism from my friends, family, professors, and mentors. They were understandably concerned, unable to comprehend my choice to forsake a comfortable and secure trajectory for the uncertainties of animation. Convincing them of the validity of my decision required a considerable amount of time and effort on my part. Even now, some continue to express reservations, characterizing my choices as reckless. While their concerns sometimes prompt self-doubt, I firmly believe that my decision to immerse myself in the dynamic world of animation was the right one.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As an animation visual artist and storyboard artist, I am deeply passionate about crafting narratives, designing compelling visuals, and directing stories that come to life through the medium of animation. My specialization lies in creating intricate and immersive worlds where human stories unfold against fantastical backdrops that are only achievable in the realm of animation.

One particular source of inspiration for me is “Zootopia,” a captivating animation that delves into profoundly human dramas within the imaginative setting of a city inhabited by diverse animals. The film skillfully addresses themes such as faith in possibility and overcoming prejudice, showcasing the power of storytelling to explore complex social issues in a visually engaging manner. Drawing from the brilliance of “Zootopia,” I am drawn to the meticulous attention the concept artists devoted to portraying a myriad of animal sizes, constructing a cohesive city structure where diverse species coexist. Similarly, my approach involves creating worlds that, while fantastical, are rooted in plausibility. I find immense satisfaction in ensuring that my designs are not only visually striking but also purposeful, infusing a sense of realism into the fantastical.

Interestingly, my proficiency in architecture and art history, acquired during my tenure at a previous university, has proven to be a substantial asset in shaping my unique artistic vision. These academic foundations contribute to my ability to construct worlds with depth and authenticity, elevating the storytelling experience. In essence, my commitment to storytelling through animation extends beyond mere artistic expression; it is a fusion of creativity, purposeful design, and a profound understanding of human narratives. I take pride in the realization that my academic pursuits have not been in vain, as they continue to enrich and inform the fantastical worlds I bring to life through my work.

What’s next?
As I approach my graduation, I am actively preparing for job opportunities in the animation industry. While my ultimate goal is to direct my own show, my immediate objective is to gain experience through involvement in real industry projects. One of the most fascinating aspects of animation is the collaborative effort involving a diverse group of professionals. Currently, my aim is to secure opportunities to work with seasoned and professional artists, transitioning from my previous experiences collaborating with fellow students.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://stonehenge601.myportfolio.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stonehenge03/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/su-min-ha-86220a22b/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/Sumin_HaHaHa
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SuminHaAnimation
• Other: https://vimeo.com/user103574704