AGE: 29
BASED IN: New York
Dust, seedlings, a diminutive handmade robot rolling around in a sweater—these are just a few of the elements that make up Mimi Park’s artistic world. The South Korean artist, who has shown at SculptureCenter, Bard’s Hessel Museum, and Sebastian Gladstone, creates objects that whir and move—until they don’t. Sometimes she repairs them, sometimes she lets them rest, and sometimes she invites viewers to take them home. It’s all part of her examination of responsibility, care, and value in art and life.
Describe one work you’ve made that captures who you are as an artist.
Most recently, I made a set of paper sculptures for SculptureCenter titled “Dahlia.” It’s made of recycled shredded atomic-blue colored paper and it’s in the shape of a type of firework called “Dahlia.” I created the arrangement using small pieces of the shredded paper to create lines on the floor of the space. The shapes disappeared within minutes of the exhibition opening due to attendees walking over and through the pieces. I liked seeing something that I had worked so hard on take on a new form due to circumstances that were beyond my control.
Describe your work in three words.
Dots, lines, planes.
Tell us about a teacher who changed the way you think about art.
Homemakers. I learned from many blogs about things such as which types of produce are in season, how to use citrus peels as a disinfectant, how to open and close the kitchen—all the small to large steps to keep the “house” system running. I apply these methodologies to keep my studio running.
What’s an artwork you didn’t make, but wish you had?
Fortunately, I have been able to make all of the artworks that I wanted to make. The ones that haven’t been realized will happen when it’s time for them to.
What’s an underrated studio tool you can’t live without?
Somewhere to lie down.
What art-world trend would you like to see die out?
Toxic materials.
Is there a studio rule you live by?
Leave when I want to leave.
Who are the three people, alive or dead, invited to your dream art-world dinner party?
My mom, Paul Thek, Füsun Onur.
See CULTURED’s full 2025 Young Artists list and access other individual artist profiles here.
in your life?
