Meet Erin Jhi

We had the good fortune of connecting with Erin Jhi and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erin, why did you pursue a creative career?
I’ve always been into art, probably because my mom’s an artist, and I grew up watching her paint and draw. I also loved watching animated movies like Kiki’s Delivery Service and My Neighbor Totoro with my dad, which definitely sparked my interest.

In middle school, my parents signed me up for a summer writing camp, and during one class instead of writing, I was doodling in my notebook. The instructor noticed and mentioned that her husband owned a small animation studio in San Francisco. She suggested I check it out, so I got to meet the artists there and show them my portfolio. That experience really inspired me to pursue a career in art.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art uses different mediums to reflect cultural taboos, differences, and experiences which emulate the conflicting emotions of belonging yet simultaneously out of place.

Despite these conflicting emotions, my art is colorful, lighthearted, and whimsical. I’m influenced by popular American characters, traditional Korean culture, religion, and pop culture.

Tattoos aren’t really accepted in Korea, where I grew up, so when I first wanted to pursue tattooing, my parents pushed back a lot. It was tough because I really loved tattooing, but I also didn’t want to let them down. That experience shows up in my artwork, whether it’s tattoos or traditional illustrations, and I think that’s what makes it special.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Hmm, that’s a great question! I’d take them to go thrifting at the many thrift stores on Magnolia Blvd. That street is always fun to walk around. Start at Porto’s to get a drink and make your way downtown! After that I’d get food afterwards.

I’m a huge foodie so I’d love to take my friend to all of my favorite restaurants around town.
Here are some of my faves:

-Anajak Thai in Sherman Oaks for casual Thai food
-Tre Mani in Santa Monica for sandwiches on freshly baked bread
-Sun Nong Dan in K-Town for Galbi-jjim (I prefer this over Kbbq!)
-Bar Sinizki in Atwater Village for pierogies and cocktails

The list can go on but I’ll keep it short. I also love to play pool at a dive bar after getting food and there are some great spots around LA!

-Tony’s Saloon in DTLA
-Plush Pocket in North Hills
-The Brickyard Pub in North Hollywood

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to give a shoutout to my friends and coworkers at Bear with Me. When I first moved to Los Angeles, I didn’t know many people, but they made me feel so welcome. With them, I’ve found a real sense of community. I feel so lucky to work with a group of people I’m proud to call my friends.

Website: www.erinjhi.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/erinjhi

Image Credits
Bryan Kirks