Today we’d like to introduce you to Yujin Iris Jeong.
Hi Yujin Iris, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My name is Yujin Iris Jeong, and I am the Associate Director of Shatto Gallery. As a curator and educator with a practice spanning both Los Angeles and Korea, I have had the privilege of organizing a wide range of international exhibitions and cultural festivals over the past decade.
In 2019, alongside Gallery Director Sue Park, I started Shatto Gallery with a vision to present exhibitions that highlight diverse artistic practices and cultural narratives. Since our inception, we have cultivated a dynamic roster of artists—ranging from emerging voices to internationally recognized figures—through a year-round program of exhibitions and projects. Our gallery has evolved into a vital cultural landmark in Korea Town, not only for the Korean-American community but also as a gathering place for artists and collectors from all over the world. With a commitment to excellence and a state-of-the-art facility, Shatto Gallery has fostered a vibrant community of art enthusiasts and patrons who share a deep appreciation for the transformative power of art.
In my role, I oversee the gallery’s programming, exhibition curation, as well as the planning and coordination of art fairs and international exhibitions. My work continues to be driven by a passion for creating spaces where art can connect, inspire, and provoke meaningful dialogue.
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?
While the art and culture industry is inherently dynamic and full of excitement, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges. With galleries and cultural institutions closing their doors, and offline art activities coming to a halt, the landscape of the industry was dramatically altered. During this difficult period, we were determined to adapt and find innovative solutions. We transitioned to the digital space, hosting virtual exhibitions, promoting online art sales, and launching the International Photography Award program. This initiative provided a platform for talented photographers worldwide to submit their work, from which we selected several exceptional artists to award and later exhibit at our gallery.
The support and friendship of our community continue to inspire me. Moreover, working with international artists has been an immensely rewarding experience. The opportunity to connect and witness the diverse worlds they create through art and culture remains one of the most exciting aspects of my career.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As an associate director and curator of the gallery, my role extends beyond the conventional expectations of curating aesthetically compelling exhibitions. While many associate curatorial practice with the display and arrangement of art, my work is intricately woven with the responsibility of fostering meaningful cultural exchange. Specifically, I focus on introducing exceptional Korean artists and their works to the vibrant art scene of Los Angeles. Conversely, I also play a pivotal role in presenting distinguished artists from diverse cultural backgrounds to the Korean art community, bridging the gap between these two dynamic worlds. I view this as an essential function in promoting cross-cultural understanding through the universal language of art.
Beyond this, I am deeply committed to curating exhibitions that resonate emotionally and intellectually with our audiences—creating spaces where viewers can engage with the artwork on a level that evokes empathy, provides solace, and injects vitality into their daily lives. I believe that artists, in turn, draw immense strength from the public’s reception of their work. The exposure and engagement they receive inspire new creations, while the sales of their pieces provide the financial foundation necessary for the continuation of their practice. My work, therefore, is centered on sustaining this cycle, ensuring that artists are given the platform and support to thrive and contribute to the broader cultural narrative.
In addition to championing individual artists, I also curate exhibitions that address critical social issues. For example, our exhibition, ‘Our River’ series for example, seeks to engage with urgent topics such as climate change and the ecological challenges facing the LA River. Through these thematic shows, we present works that not only highlight pressing contemporary issues but also create a platform for dialogue and reflection. I view these initiatives as an opportunity to use art as a powerful tool for social change, providing audiences with the chance to reflect on and engage with the most pressing concerns of our time.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
Among many childhood memories, one of the most formative was a trip to Taiwan I took with my church when I was in elementary school. It was my first time leaving Korea, and this experience opened my eyes to the existence of worlds beyond my own—an insight that profoundly influenced my life.
At 16, I moved to Cape Town, South Africa, where I completed both high school and university, further expanding my global perspective. Throughout my university years, I traveled extensively across Europe and Asia, visiting destinations such as France, the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Italy, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Dubai, and China. These travels not only enriched my understanding of diverse cultures but also nurtured adaptability and an appreciation for the nuances of different societies.
In my career as a curator, these international experiences have been invaluable. They’ve shaped my approach to art and curating, empowering me to navigate cross-cultural spaces with ease. My ability to connect with artists and audiences from various backgrounds has become a defining strength, enabling me to curate exhibitions that foster meaningful cultural exchanges. My ongoing efforts to expand my understanding of global perspectives continue to enhance my work, reinforcing my belief that art is a powerful tool for bridging cultures.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.shattogallery.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shattogallery/?hl=en
Image Credits
Sue Park
