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Bio

Education

MFA & BA Degrees: Metal Art; Fiber Art; Indiana University, Bloomington, IN (01/1973 & 06/1969)

Ewha Womans University (Fiber Art), Seoul, Korea (04/1958- 06/1961)

Honorary BFA: Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea (08/2007)

Teaching Experience

Teaching Experience

1972-2014: Professor, Montgomery College, Rockville, MD

1988-2014: Professor/Coordinator, Metals & Crafts, Montgomery College, Rockville, MD

1988: Full Professors; Metal Arts & Coordinator of Crafts; Montgomery College, Rockville, MD

1982: Associate Professors: Montgomery College, Rockville, MD

1979: Assistant Professor: Montgomery College, Rockville, MD

1973: Instructor: Montgomery College, Rockville, MD

 

1994-1995: Fulbright International Exchange Lectureship/Research; Wonk-Kwang University, Iksan City, Jullabuk-do, Korea

1985-1986: Exchange Visiting Assistant Professor; Metal Arts, University of Wisconsin-Madison

1982-1983: Fulbright International Exchange Lectureship/Research; Hongik University, Seoul, Korea

 

2016-17: Distinguished Visiting Lecturer; Daegu Catholic University, Daegu, Korea

2007, ‘93, ‘90: Summer School Lecturer: Tainan National University of Arts, Tainan, Taiwan

1996: Spring semester: Lecturer: Seoul National U; Kyunggi U; Sookmyung Women’s U; Kunkook University, Seoul, Korea

1999: Summer School Lecturer; University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii

1992 ‘91: Summer School Lecturer; Kutztown University, Kutztown, Pennsylvania

1996/89/85: Summer School Lecturer; Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, Illinois

1983: Spring semester: Lecturer: Seoul National U. Kookmin U. Ducksung Women’s U. Kunkook University, Seoul, Korea

1987: Summer School Lecturer; University of Maryland, Asian Division, Seoul, Korea

1986: Summer School Lecturer; Miami University, Oxford, Ohio

1980: Spring &Fall Semester Lecturer (Evening Class); Towson University, Towson, Maryland

1977: Summer School Lecturer; University of Maryland at Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany

1969-1972: Associate Instructor; Jewelry/Metalsmithing, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana

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Teaching Experience since Retirement (2016-2018)

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2018/5; 2017/4; 2016/10; 2016/4; 2015/10: Distinguished Lecturer,

                         Daegu Catholic University, Kyung Book, Korea

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Invitational Exhibits

30 ONE-PERSON INVITATIONAL EXHIBITS at MUSEUMS & GALLERIES (1977-2014):

Seoul (Korea); Paris (France); Nova Scotia (Canada); USA: Los Angeles (California); Bloomington & Muncie (Indiana); New York (New York); Washington DC; McLean & Vienna, (Virginia); Kensington & Rockville (Maryland)

​SOLO Invitational Exhibition, Honolulu Museum of Fine Art, Hawaii (2003)

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09/2014 Komelia H. Okim Retrospective Invitational Show, Kaplan Gallery & 42 former
Student Artists, Gibbs Street Gallery, VisArt, Rockville, MD (Catalog Essay)

10/2013 My Life Journey Over 40 Years as an Artist & as an Educator; Sarah Silverman Gallery, Montgomery College, Rockville, MD (Catalog Essay)

04/2012 Komelia Hongja Okim Metal Works Invitational, MK Gallery, Vienna, VA (Booklet –Essay)

09/2010 OKIM Recent Metal Works Invitational, MK Gallery, Mc Lean VA (Booklet-Essay)

08/2007 Landscape Fantasia, Gallery Haute Classe, Seoul, Korea (Booklet-Essay)

07/2007 Mirrorscape. Invitational H Gallery of the Gallery Hyundai, Seoul, Korea (Catalog, Essay)

09/2005 Landscape Fantasia: Sculptures Invitational , Sponsored By the Asia Society of the Washington Center, Washington, D C (Booklet, Essay)

2004 Honoring Tradition: Perspectives, Ball State University Art Museum, Muncie, IN (Catalog, Essay)

10-11/2003 Reflections of Two Worlds: Korean Heritage, Metalwork by Komelia H. Okim, Honolulu Museum of Fine Arts, Honolulu, Hawaii (Catalog Essay)

01/2002 Solo Traveling Show, Anna Leonowens Gallery, NSCAD, Nova Scotia, Canada

12/2001 Komelia Hongja Okim Solo Show, Centre Culturel Coreen, Paris, France (Catalog Essay)

09/2001 Retrospective Exhibition: Komelia H. Okim, MC Art Gallery,Montgomery College, Rockville, MD

06/2000 Komelia H. Okim Visiting Artist Solo Show, The Common’s Gallery, University of Hawaii- Manoa, Honolulu, HI

1987 Solo Invitational: Wall Mirrors, Vessels, Poongkyung, Mungborang, Hyatt Hotel, Seoul, Korea (Catalog Essay)

1994, 1986, Featured Metal Art Solo Exhibition, Gallery Hyundai, Seoul, Korea (3 Catalogs & 3 Essays)

& 1981

1993 Featured Metal Artist Exhibit, Komelia Hongja Okim, Asian Arts Center Gallery, Towson University, Towson, MD (Leaflet & Essay published in Metalsmith Megazine)

07/1977 Komelia Hongja Okim Metal Solo Invitational, Shinsaegae Art Center, Shinsaegae, Seoul, Korea (Booklet Essay)

01/1973 MFA Graduate Thesis Exhibit, IU Art Gallery, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN (Thesis)

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Collections

Selected Collections at Museums, Public & Private Collectors:

  • Seoul Crafts Museum, ROK (2020; 4 works)

  • Virginia Museum of Fine Art, Richmond, VA (2019)

  • Renwick American Crafts Museum, Smithsonian Institution, Washington DC (2015)

  • Blue House (Korean President’s House), Seoul, Korea (2008)

  • Ewha Womans University Museum, Seoul, Korea (2007)

  • Yunnan Hanrongxuan Culture & Art Museum, Kunming City, Yunnan, China (2006)

  • Victoria & Albert Museum: SERVER on BS Rabinovitch Collection, London, England (2005)

  • Ball State University Museum of Art, Muncie, Indiana (2004)

  • The Embassy of Korea, Minister of Public Affairs Residence, McLean, Virginia (2004)

  • Esmod Cole Seoul, Fashion School, Seoul, Korea (2001, 2004)

  • Museum of Arts & Design, New York, New York (2003)

  • Honolulu Museum of Arts, Honolulu, Hawaii (1999, 2003)

  • Collector; Ronald Abramson Collection. Washington DC (1982, 1994, 2002)

  • Collector, Giselle & Ben Huberman Collection, Potomac, MD (2012, 00, 08)

  • Gallery Bing & MyungBoRang Collections, Seoul, Korea (2001, 08, 06, 82)

  • Sonny Kamp TEAPOT Collection, Los Angeles, California (2001)

  • The Contemporary Art Museum, Honolulu, Hawaii (1999, 2000)

  • Racine Museum of Fine Arts, Racine, Wisconsin (1996)

  • Piere Cosmetic Collection, Seoul, Korea (1994)

  • Seoul Broadcasting System (SBS), Seoul, Korea (1994)

  • Korean National Museum of Contemporary Art, Kwachon, Kyungki Do, Korea (1989, 87)

  • Collector, Paul Wolf Collection, Washington DC (1988)

  • Indiana University Museum, Bloomington, Indiana (1973)

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Grants, Honors, Awards & Special Invitations

Grants,  Awards & Special Invitation

 

08/2020   American Crafts Magazine will have a BOOK REVIEW on my book.

05/2020   My book has been selected for the “2019 Foreword INDIES Award”                            as one of 10 finalists in the Art (Adult Non Fiction) category. Each                                year, thousands of books are submitted to the Foreword INDIES Award,                      over 120 librarians and booksellers take part in the judging, narrowing the                  choices down to finalists representing the best books.

01/2020   Seoul Crafts Museum, ROK, purchased 4 of my works for their collection.

                This museum is scheduled to open on October, 2020.

12/2019   Korean Metal Techniques 2-Day Weekend Workshop

                at Honolulu Museum Academy, Hawaii Lecture on my book: “Korean                          Metal Art: Techniques, Inspiration, and Traditions”

11/2019   International Invitational Exhibitions,

                “PRESENT TENSE, 2019” Contemporary 12 Artists,

                Hosted by Incheon Metropolitan City, Boopyeong Art Center; Kkot-Nu-Ri                    Gallery, Incheon, ROK.

11/2019    International Invitational Exhibitions: “DRAW, ENGRAVE, MAKE

                ARTWORKS”. SUNCHEON Culture & Arts Center, No. 1 Gallery, 6 Artists,

                Hosted by Suncheon City Arts Council, CheonNam, ROK.

11/2019   Public Lecture; “2019 Chicago SOFA” (Sculpture Object Functional

                Object) on my book and my work, Sponsored by SNAG (Society of North

                America)- International Yearly Event 

10/2019   Book Signing: at “Schiffer Book Stall”, 2019 Chicago SOFA, Chicago, IL

10/2019   Korean Design Inc. “행복이 가득한집” (House full of Happiness);

                Featured Article: October, 2019, Design House, Seoul, Korea

09/2019   Special Featured News Paper: Chosen Daily, 9/19, 2019. Seoul,

08/2019   Published Book: “Korean Metal Art: Techniques, Inspiration, and                                  Traditions”, Schiffer Publisher Ltd, Atglen, PA

06/2019   1st Prize Winner in Metal Art: “32nd Creative Crafts Council Biennial” at

                Strathmore Art Center, N. Bethesda, MD

06-08/2019  Selected Work for the HammerClub Traveling Exhibits, Dundee                              University, Scotland & Gold Museum, London, UK

                (Conjunction of Annual International Symposium)

05-07/2019  Chosen for 50 Artists: Mastery Art: “Irresistible Offerings”, Exhibition; for                  50th SNAG Conference, 2025 Street Gallery, Chicago, IL

04/2019 & 04/2018 “JaMS Exhibition in Print” SNAG competition. Catalog-book                          (P38,39/1)

08/2018   Writing Grant: KAMS (Korean Arts Service Management Service)     

04/2018   Writing Grant: Hyosung Corporation Co, Ltd, Seoul, Korea

02/2018   Writing Grant: Soyen Metal Jewelry Cop., Seoul, ROK

03/2018   Writing Grant from Gallery SOYEON, Seoul, Korea 

04/2018   JUROR: 2018 International Metals Competition, GOLDMUSEUM, New  

                Taipei City, Taiwan (Exhibition: July–September, 2018)

04/2017   Writing Grant from Korean Fulbright Educational Commissions,

                Seoul, Korea

2015-2016 Fulbright Senior Research Grant to Korea & Cosponsored; the Gyeongju

                National Museum: Research: Korean Traditional Meal SurfaceTechniques

01/2016   Fulbright Regional Short Traveling Grant to Japan: Research & Lecture at                  Tokyo National Museum

04/2015   Head: Chosen Homeland: Women searching for Identity, KOWINNER

                International Art Exhibit, Korean Embassy’s Cultural Center,

                Washington DC (Catalog)

10/2011   Head: 2011 World Taiwan Expo”: International Crafts & Design:

                “Symbiosis & Environment”, 29 Artists (Curator/organizer/lecturer)

                Brochure/Poster

07/2008   FY09 Creative Projects Grant Award, Maryland Arts & Humanities Council                  Grant

10/2006   Lecturer: Art Bridging Two Cultures; Korea & America, Keynote Lecturer,

                “International Symposium” Sponsored by Koonmin City, Yunnan, China 

19/2003   Excellence in Education Award, Arts & Humanities Council,

                Montgomery County, Maryland

08/2003   Head: Curate & Lectured: Dreams & Reality, International Gallery,

                Ripley Center, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D C (Catalog)

09/2001   Montgomery College Foundation Grant, Rockville, Maryland

1994-95   Fulbright Senior Scholars to Korea for Lectureship & Research

                (Korean Metal Art): Won-Kwang University, Iksan, Korea

1988-89   Montgomery Country Arts Council Research Grant: Coloring Metals

1982-83   Fulbright Senior Scholar to Korea for Lectureship & Research (Korean                        Metal Art): Hong-ik University, Seoul, Korea

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Honors & Awards

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  • Proud JinMyung High School “Recognition Award”, Seoul, Korea (9/2014)

  • KOWINNER (Korean International Women’s Networking Foundation), Arts Award, Romania (6/2012)

  • Proud Ewhaian “Recognition Award”, Ewha Womans University Alumnae Association, North America, FL (11/2008)

  • Woman Designer “Leadership Award”, WDL International Fair 2008 Conference, Seoul, Korea (10/2008)

  • “FY09 Creative Projects Grant Award”, MD Arts & Humanities Council (7/2008)

  • “Excellence Teaching & Service Award”, Montgomery College, MD (2008/5)

  • “Honorary BFA Degree”, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea (8/2007)

  • “Art Bridging Two Cultures: Korea & America”, 2006 China International Forum, Kunming City, Yunnan, China (10/2006)

  • “Special Service Award”, Washington Guild of Goldsmith, Metropolitan of Washington D.C. (2005)

  • “Honoring 40 People for the 40th Anniversary”, Montgomery College, Rockville, MD (2005) 

  • “2003 Excellence in Education Award”, Arts & Humanities Council, Montgomery County, MD (2003)

  • Korea Craft Council Recognition & Award, the Arts Center, Seoul, Korea (2002)

  • Montgomery College Foundation Grant, M C, Rockville, MD (2001)

  • Fulbright Exchange Senior Scholar Korea (1982-’83 &1994-‘95), Research on  Korean Metal Surface Embellishments Techniques: Keumboo & Jjoum Ipsa   (Korean Damascene)

  • Montgomery Country Arts Council Grant: “Research on Coloring Metals Grant” 1988-89

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Grants, Honors, & Awards

Over 130 Lectures & Workshops Conducted on Korean Surface Metal & Western Techniques at Universities, Crafts Schools, & Metals’ Guilds for 2-3 Days or 1-2  Weeks:

Canada, China, France, Japan, Germany, Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Norway, Russia, UK, & USA (Hawaii, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Texas, Arizona, Oregon, Seattle, Iowa, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Florida, North Carolina, Wisconsin, Missouri, Virginia, West Virginia, New York, Maine, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Maryland, & Washington DC

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2019/12          2-day Workshop & Lecture

                        Honolulu Museum of Fine Art Academy

2019/10          Lecture at 2019 SOFA-CHICAGO (Sculpture Objects Functional Art) ,

                       Sponsored by SNAG (Society of North America Goldsmiths)

2018/4            Guest Lecturer; on Korean Traditional Metal Art Techniques from 3rd

                       Century to 21st Century, at Gold-museum, New Taipei City, Taiwan 

                       * JUROR for the 2018 International Metals Competition, GOLD                                    MUSEUM, New Taipei City, Taiwan

2016, 17, 18  Lecturer; Daegu Catholic University, Daegu, Korea

2016              Lecturer; Tokyo National Museum of Art, Tokyo, Japan

2016              Lecturer;  Notre Dame Catholic Women’s University, Okayama, Japan

2014, 13, 12  Lecture; VisArt Center, Rockville, Maryland

2010, 09, 07, 05, 04 Workshop/Lecture; Linakona Art Center, Honolulu Academy of

                       Arts, Honolulu, Hawaii

2006, 96, 92  Lecture/ Workshop: Renwick Smithsonian American Crafts Museum,  

                      Washington DC

2006, 92, 00 Two-week Workshop, Penland School of Crafts, Penland, NC

2005/4            Lecture; JRA Distinguished Artist; Smithsonian American Crafts                                   Museum, Washington DC

2005/4            Workshop on Keumboo; Sponsored by the Renwick Alliance,

2005, 04, 96, 86, 84  Workshop/Lecture: Maryland Institute College of Art, Baltimore,

                        MD

2004               Workshop; TAMARACK Arts & Crafts Center, Beckley, West Virginia

2004               Symposium: Searching For a Path, Towson University, MD

2003               Lecture; Honolulu Museum of Art, Honolulu, HI

2003/8            Lecture: “Dreams & Reality”, International Gallery, Ripley Center,

                       Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D C

2002               Lecture; Honolulu Academy of Arts Gallery, Honolulu, Hawaii

2000               Lecture; University of Hawaii-Manoa, Honolulu, Hawaii

2000               Workshop, Haiku-Pauwela Maui Arts & Crafts Center, Maui, Hawaii

2000               Workshop; Appalachian Center for Crafts, Tennessee Technology

                       University, Smithville, Tennessee

1998               Workshop, Hawaii Crafts Guild, University of Hawaii , Honolulu, HI

1998, 96, 94, 89  Workshop: Peter’s Valley Crafts Center, Layton, New Jersey

1998, 97, 90  Workshop: Haystack Mountain School of Crafts, Deer Isle, Maine

1997, 95, 93, 87  Workshop: Arrowmont School of Crafts, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 

1998, 97        Workshop: “Yuma Conference”, Yuma, Arizona

1998              Workshop: Mesa Art Center, Mesa, Arizona (May).

                      Workshop: Tucson Park Service, Tucson, Arizona       

                      Workshop, YUMA Conference, Yuma, Arizona

1997              Workshop:  Society of Philadelphia Goldsmiths, Moore College,

                      Philadelphia, PA

1997              Workshop: Florida Society of Goldsmiths NE Chapter, Atlantic Center                          for the Arts, New Smyrna Beach, Florida

1996              Workshop/Lecturer: “The Russian Faberge Art Exhibition”, Corcoran 

                      Museum, Washington, DC.

1996              Juror & Lecturer: “Competition for Young Jewelers in St. Petersburg”,

                      Sponsored By the Faberge Arts Foundation in USA and Russia, St.  

                      Petersburg, Russia

                      Workshop: SE Florida Chapter of the Florida Society of Goldsmith, 

                      International University, Miami, Florida

1994              Workshop: Oregon School of Art & Crafts, Portland, Oregon

1993, 84, 83  Workshop: Towson State University, Towson, Maryland

1993, 90        Workshop: Brookfield Craft Center, Brookfield, Connecticut (October).

1993              Symposium/ Workshop: "1993 Year of American Crafts Symposium”,

                      Sawtooth Center for the Visual Art, Winston-Salem, North Carolina

1993              Workshop: The Metal Arts Guild of San Francisco, California College of

                      Arts & Crafts, Oakland, California

1993              Workshop: "Art of the Craftsman-for the Artists in Residence Program”,

                      Division of Art Center at 92nd Street Y, New York, New York.

1992              Workshop/Lecture: Florida Society of Goldsmiths,

                      Deland Museum of Art, Deland, Florida

1992              Symposium/Workshop Co-Coordinator: St. Louis Art Museum,

                      St. Louis, Missouri & SIUE, Edwardsville, Illinois

1992, 86        Workshop; Northern Arizona State University, Flagstaff, Arizona.

1991              Workshop/ Interpreter/Translator; Slide & Museum-Walk through                                  Lecture On Korean Metal & Fiber; Kutztown University, Kutztown,                                Pennsylvania

1991              Workshop Lecturer: Florida Society of Goldsmiths, Wildacres, NC

1991              Lecture: Fu-Zien Catholic University, Taipei & Taizung Art Center, TW

1990              Museum Walk-through Lecture: Korean Metal & Fiber;

                      Oregon Museum & Workshop: University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon 

1990, 96        Walk Through Lecture: Korean Metal Techniques, IU Museum,  

                      Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana

1990              Workshop: Jewelry & Metal Department, Indiana University,                                        Bloomington.

1990              Walk-Through Gallery Lecture: Korean Traveling Contemporary of                              Metal & Fiber Arts, MC Art Gallery, Rockville, Maryland

1990, 89        Workshop: Columbia Art Center, Columbia, Maryland

1989              Workshop; Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona

1989              Workshop: Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, Illinois

1989              Workshop: University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa

1989              Lecture: State School for Arts & Crafts, Oslo, Norway                  

1988              Lecture: American Metal Arts with nine American Professors,

                      Hongik U, Seoul National U & Jeonbuk U, Korea

1988, 87        Workshop:  Bowling Green University, Bowling Green, Ohio

1988              Workshop:  California College of Arts & Crafts, Oakland, California

1986              Workshop: University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, Wisconsin

1986              Workshop: SW Craft Center, San Antonio, Texas

1986              Workshop: University of Wisconsin-Stout, Menomonee, WI

1985              Lecture, Tyler School of Art, Temple University, Elkins, PA    

1985              Workshop: Washington Guild of Goldsmiths, MC , Rockville, MD.

1981              Workshop:  National Building Museum, Smithsonian, Washington, DC

1994              Workshop: Oregon School of Art & Crafts, Portland, OR

1993, 99        Workshop: “Brookfield Arts Center, Brookfield, Connecticut

1993              Workshop/Lecture: 

                      “1993 YEAR OF AMERICAN CRAFT SYMPOSIUM”,

                      Sawtooth Center for the Visual Art, Winston-Salem, NC                                              

1993              Workshop: The Metal Arts Guild of San Francisco, CCAC, Oakland 

1992              Workshop Lecturer: “ART OF THE CRAFTSMAN for the Artist in

                      Residence, 92nd Street Y, New York, NY (One week)                              1992              Workshop: Florida Society of Goldsmith, DeLand Museum, Florida

1992              Symposium/Workshop Co Coordinator: Southern Illinois Univ.

                      Edwardsville, St .Louis Art Museum, Missouri

1990/1           Workshop Lecturer: Florida Society of Goldsmiths, Wildacres, NC

                  

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Lectures & Workshops
Newspaper Articles

Selected Artist Profiles & Art Work Images in Newspaper Articles:

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  • KBFD TV, Hawaii News Featured Announcement & News (Day & Evening) 12/14,15,18,2019)

  • Seoul CHOSUN Daily News Paper Featured Article: About “Korean Metal Art: Techniques, Inspiration, and Traditions” (9/19/2019)

  • Korea Daily Newspaper (Washington DC) 9/31/2019

  • Fire from the Forge: A Tribute to Komelia Okim; Retrospective Exhibition: TWO Parts Show, VisArts Center, Rockville, MD (Joongahng Daily, & Korea Time-Sept, 2014)

  • My Life Journey as an Artist & as an Educator: MC Art Gallery: Montgomery College TV, Korea Times & Joongahng News Daily (Sep. & October, 2013)

  • 40 years Life as Professor& Artist, Joongang Daily Washington DC (6/18/09)

  • As a Successful Artist, Weekly Korean KORUS, Washington DC (7/18/09)

  • High-lighting on Receiving Honorary Degree & One Person Exhibition in Seoul, Korea Times & Joong-Ang News Papers (6/2007 & 8/2007)

  • Korean Cooking for New Years Day Celebration, WASHINGTON POST: Weekend Magazine (March, 2005)

  • Using Traditional Korean Technique in a Modern Way, By Victoria Gail-White, Honolulu Advertiser Daily News Paper, D10 Art Section, November 2, 2003

  • Sweat into Gold: An Elegant Alchemy, the Washington Post, by Nicole M Miller, Art & Style, P. C5, 4/5, 2001.

  • Tao: There is No Fear, Only Flow, The Honolulu Star Bulletin, Today (Section B) by Nadine Kam, 6/20, 2002

  • Man & Nature, The Chosun Daily, Washington, Section Art & Culture, Jin P. Choi, 1/ 14, 2001

  • Selected Lists of Written Catalog Essays: East Meets West: Landscape Fantasia; The Landscape Sculptures of Komelia Hongja Okim, Catalog, By Susan Isaacs, June 2005

  • “In Praise of Hybridism: Dreams & Reality” Smithsonian Exhibition Catalog, International Gallery, Washington, DC. August-September 2003, pp.19-20 By Eleanor Heartney

  • Honoring Tradition: Perspectives of Three Asian American Artists, Ball State University, Museum Art Catalog, By Sarah Anne McNear, Muncie, Indiana, Fall 2004.

  • Komelia Hongja Okim: A Korean American Metal Artist, Catalog Essay for the One Person Exhibition, By Jennifer Saville, Honolulu Academy of Arts Museum, Honolulu, HI, July, 2003

Book & Magazine Reviews

Selected Book & Magazine Reviews:

  • Special Featured News: Chosen Daily, Oct. 19, 2019. Seoul, Korea

  • Korean Design Inc. “행복이 가득한집”(House full of Happiness); Featured Article October, 2019, Design House, Seoul, Korea

  • “Komelia Okim Bridging with Metal” by KATJA TOPORSKI, METALSMITH: N0.3 Volume35,P52-59 (Magazine,2015)

  • Essay: “Life of Komelia H. Okim”, Metalsmith Magazine, Fall Issue’ 2014, North America, P15-19

  • Review of Komelia Hongja Okim, American Craft Magazine,New York, Pat Hickman, February-March, 2004, p 74-75

  • Reflections of Two Worlds: A Korean Heritage Metal Work by Komelia Hongja Okim. Honolulu Academy of Art Magazine, By Jennifer Saville, September/October, 2003

  • Catalog, 2011 International Expo on World Design & Crafts at Taipei, Taiwan on American Pavilion

  • Contemporary Silver; Commissioning, Designing, Collecting: By Benton Seymour Ravinovich & Helen Clifford, Merrell Publishers, London, 2000, pp. 23, 134, 135

  • Art That Works; Decorative Art of the Eighties Crafted in America, By Lloyd E Herman, University of Washington Press, Seattle & London, 1990, pp. 6, 20, 81, 82

  • DESIGN by CONEMPORARY HOLLOWWARE: THE SILVER, written by VICTORIA GEIBEL,

  • METROPOLIS: The ARCHITECTURE MAGAZINE of NEW YORK, December, 1988; P. 78-81

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Selected Curated Exhibitions:

  • 12/2019 Co-Juror: Hawaii-Incheon-WDC International Invitational Exhibit, Incheon

  • 11/2019 Co-Juror: Suncheon International Invitational Exhibit, Culture & ArtMuseum, Suncheon, ROK (Selected 2 Female artists from Texas, USA)

  • 04/2018 JUROR:  2018 International Metals Competition, GOLDMUSEUM, New Taipei City, Taiwan (Exhibition: July–September, 2018)

  • 04/2015 Chosen Homeland: Women’s searching for Identity , KOWINNER International Art Exhibit, Korean Embassy’s Cultural Center, Washington DC (Catalog)

  • 09/2014 “Fire from the Forge”: An Exhibition of 42 International Metal Artists, VisArt Center, Rockville, MD (Catalog)

  • 01/2012 “Green Life”, Glenview Mansion Art Gallery, Rockville Civic Center (21artists-Catalog)

  • 01-02/2012 “East & West Confluence: Exhibition Celebrating Asian Lunar New Year (8 artists), VA, Co-Curator, Lecturer (Poster)

  • 01-02/2011 “Celebration of Asian Lunar New Year”, 8 Artists, Kapland Gallery, VisArt, Rockville, MD (Poster)

  • 10/2011 “Conceptual & Fictional: Tea/Coffee Pots in Variety of Media,” MC S Gallery, Rockville, MD (Curate/organizer, Lecturer) Poster

  • 10/2011 2011 World Taiwan Expo”: International Crafts & Design Exhibition;“Symbiosis & Environment”, (Curator/organizer/lecturer) Brochure/Poster

  • 10/2010 Blossoming Spring”, MK Gallery, McLean, VA (Curator, Organizer) Brochure

  • 04/2007 Lecture/Exhibit; Korean Ambassador’s Residence for American Women’s Club, Washington DC

  • 10/2006 Art Bridging Two Cultures; Korea & America, Keynote Lecturer, Koonmin City, Yunnan, China

  • 04/2005 Lecture/Exhibit; Korean Ambassadors’ Residence, for Korean American Women’s Club, Washington, DC

  • 10/2004 Symposium: Searching For a Path, Towson University, MD (Brochure)

  • 08/2003 Curated & Lecture: Dreams & Reality, International Gallery, Ripley Center, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D C (Catalog)

  • 10/2005 Forward Message for the Exhibition Catalog, “Echoes: 11Korean-American Artists”, Howard Center For The Arts, Ellicott City, MD

  • 08/2003 Forward Massage (Exhibition Catalog): Dreams & Reality: Celebrating 100 Years of Korean Immigration to America, International Gallery, Smithsonian Institution (11 Selected Artists from NY, WDC, CA, IO, & MD)

  • 2003 Forward Massage (Exhibition Brochure), Echoes; Celebrating Exhibition for Korean Centennial Year For Immigration to America, Rockville Arts Center, MD (10 selected artists)

  • 2002 Award Message (Exhibition Catalog); 7 Echoes: International Metal Arts Invitational Show, Hyundai Gallery, Seoul, Korea (7 artists from America, England, and Korea)

  • 2002-2003 “Hidden Passion” Forward Massage for Exhibition Catalog: 2 Year Traveling Exhibition of Women Metal Artists from Japan, Korea and Taiwan (51 Artists) Curator; Organizer: Catalog

  • 1997-2000 “MORNING CALM ”: 17 Young Korean Metal & Fiber Artists: Forward Message: Exhibition Catalog’ 3 Year Traveling Show in Museums and University’s Galleries in Canada and USA(Curator; Organizor) Catalog

  • 1979 Komelia Hongja Okim & "Korean Artists in Washington, D.C. Area", Visual Industrial Design and Crafts Magazine, Seoul, Korea, (January pp. 58-61).

  • 1978 Review; Korean Artists' Association of the Greater Washington, D. C. (Korea Times Daily)

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Curated Exhibitions
Group Exhibitions

Selected International Group Exhibitions

  • 12/2019  “PRESENT TENSE”, 2019 American Contemporary 12 Artists Invitational, Bupyeong Arts Center Kkot-nu-ri Gallery, Incheon, Korea

  • 11/2019   “Draw, Engrave, & Make Artworks”, 2019 American ContemporaryInvitational, 6 Artist Invitational Exhibit, Suncheon Arts & Couture Center

  • 2009 Talking Hands: Spectrum of Contemporary Metal Arts: Seoul National University Museum; Invitational show of 96 artists from Europe, US & Korea, (Catalog/Essay)

  • 2009 Traces & Trajectories: Current Works of Ten Korean American Artists: Honolulu Academy Art Center Gallery, Honolulu, Hawaii, Curate/Produced (Catalog/Essay)

  • 2008 Korean Metal Art & Jewelry Design Today, LA Korean Culture Center, CA

  • 2011 The 2011 International Worlds Fair, Taipei, Taiwan (Curator’s Statement/Leaflet)

  • 2007-08 Wedding Rituals: 26 Korean & North American Artists’ Traveling Exhibition, Tong-in Gallery, Insa Dong, Seoul, Korea & Savannah, GA for the SNAG International Conference; Curate & Organized (Catalog/Essay)

  • 2007 MyeongBoRang’s 33rd Anniversary Invitational Exhibition: Dreams of The Golden Boar; Journey with TEN Blessed Beings; 12 Artists Invitational; West Exhibition Hall, Silla Hotel, Jangchoong-dong, Seoul, Korea (Catalog/Essay)

  • 2006 SOFA Chicago, booth: The Guilgum Metal Art’s Research Center of Korea, Chicago, Illinois

  • 2006 China International Fork Crafts & Art Exhibition, Yunnan Museum, Kunming City, China

  • 2006-08: Art in Embassies, Residence of the US Ambassador in Seoul, Korea

  • 2005 Searching for a Path: 7 Asian-American Artists, Inaugural Exhibition of the Asian Arts Gallery, Center for the Arts, Towson University, Towson, MD (Leaflet/Essay)

  • 2004 Two Capitals, the All Russian Decorative, Applied, & Folk Art Museum, Moscow, Russia

  • 2003 Dreams & Realities, Centennial Celebration of Korean Immigration to US: International Gallery, Reply Center, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC (Catalog, Essay)

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Written Publications

WRITTEN PUBLICATIONS: (about the Artist & Written Catalogs & Articles):

  • 07/2019  Author: Korean Art Metal: Techniques, Inspiration and Traditions  By Schiffer Publishing Ltd, Atglen, Pennsylvania

  • 03/2015 Art Director’s Statement: Korean International Woman Networking (KOWINNER) Art Exhibit at Korean Cultural Center, Washington DC, (Catalog)

  • 09/2014 Curator’s Statement; Fire from the Forge: An Exhibition of 42 Selected International Metal Artists, Catalog, Gibbs Street Gallery, VisArt, Rockville, MD (Catalog)

  • 08/2014 Curator’s Statement: Chosen Homeland, Leaflet, Biltmore, LA, CA (Booklet)

  • 09/2013 Curator’s Statement: Revival III, Catalog, Chicago Korean Art & Culture, Center, Whiling, Illinois (Catalog)

  • 09/2012 Curator’s Statement for the Green Life Exhibition Catalog, Korean Embassy Cultural Center, Washington DC

  • 05/2012 KoWinner. Green Life; International Korean Women’s Arts Award; P.117-128, ISBN 978- 89-969962-2-8

  • 09/2011 Curator’s Statement for the Catalog: American Pavilion, 2011 Taipei World Design Expo-Int’l Craft Design Exhibition, Taipei, Taiwan (Catalog & Poster) Selected Artists: Albert Paley, Robert Ebendorf, Joyce J. Scott, Harvey K. Littleton, Jojn Littleton & Kate Vogel, Helen Shirk, Marilyn de Silva, Jack de Silva, BJ Adams, Andrea V. Uravitch, Laura Peeley, Kevin Hluch, James Malenda, Paulette Myers, Namu Cho, Komelia H. Okim (16 Artists)

  • 08/2011 Excerpts on Crafts Forum/Symposium for International Panel Discussion

  • 10/2009 Curator’s Statement for the Catalog: “Blossoming Washington Pear”, 17 Artist’s Invitational Exhibition: KORUS HOUSE of Korean Embassy of the Cultural Center, Washington DC

  • 12/2007 Curators Statement for the Catalog, “Wedding Rituals” Korean & North American Metal Artists Traveling Exhibition; Seoul & Savannah, GA (Catalog)

  • 2007 Chairwoman’s Forward Messages for the Korean American Scholarship Foundation; Scholarship Award Ceremonies for the Each 6 Regional Chapters: NE; E; W; S; NME; & MW. (Brochures)

  • 2006 “Art Bridging Two Cultures”: Korea & America, Catalog & Journal; Yunnan International High Level Craft Arts & Art Symposium, Yunnan National Museum of Art, Kunming City, Yunnan, China (October) (Booklet)

  • 07/2006 Chairwoman’s Congratulatory Messages for the 2005 NBD Annual Report Catalog of the 6- Regional Chapters of the KASF

  • 04-10/2006 Chairwoman’s Congratulatory Remarks; The Korean American Scholarship Foundation (KASF) Scholarship Award Ceremony’s for 6 Regional Chapter

  • 10/2005 Forward Message for the Exhibition Catalog, “Echoes: 11Korean-American Artists”, Howard Center for the Arts, Ellicott City, Maryland

  • 08/2003 Forward Massage (Exhibition Catalog): Dreams & Reality: Celebrating 100 Years of Korean Immigration to America, International Gallery, Smithsonian Institution (11 Selected Artists from NY, WDC, CA, IO, & MD)

  • 2003 Forward Massage (Exhibition Brochure), Echoes; Celebrating Exhibition for Korean Centennial Year For Immigration to America, Rockville Arts Center, MD (10 selected artists)

  • 2002 Award Massage (Exhibition Catalog); 7 Echoes: International Metal Arts Invitational Show, Hyundai Gallery, Seoul, Korea (7 artists from America, England, and Korea)

  • 2002-2003 “Hidden Passion” Forward Massage for Exhibition Catalog: 2 Year Traveling Exhibition of Women Metal Artists from Japan, Korea and Taiwan (51 Artists) Catalog

  • 2002-2003 POTOMAC Review, Issue 34: A Journal of Arts & Humanities ; On Native Ground: Portfolio of Artist By Karri Jessie; P.185-189

  • 1997-2000 “ MORNING CALM ”: 17 Young Korean Metal & Fiber Artists: Forward Message: Exhibition Catalog’ 3 Year Traveling Show at the Museums and University’s Galleries in Canada and USA (Curator) Catalog

  • 1992 Metals Technique: A Collection of Techniques for Metalsmiths, Chapter on KUMBOO (24K Gold Overlay on Silver), BRYN MORGEN PRESS, (Edited by Tim McCreight).

  • Fall 1992 KEUMBOO (Korean 24K Gold Overlay) Technique”, Metalsmith (Fall)

  • 06/1992 Review on Kumboo Technique, Korean Crafts & Design Monthly Magazine

  • 1992 Review: European Figurative Works at VO Gallery, Metalsmith Magazine (Spring)

  • 1987 Review: American Figurative Works at VO Gallery, Summer Issue of Metalsmith Magazine & Korean Design Monthly Magazine.

  • 1987 Review, Dalya Luttwok’s Metalworks Exhibit, Summer Issue of Metalsmith Magazine

  • 1986 Review: Yeo-Ok Chang and Helene Safire's Jewelry Exhibition, Spring Issue of Metalsmith Magazine & Korean Design Monthly Magazine

  • 10/1986 Article on Mokume Gane, Korean Design Magazine, October

  • 1985 Review: Belle and Roger Kuhn's Exhibition, Fall Issue of Metalsmith & Korean Design Magazines

  • 03/1984 Review: Robert Ebendorf's Metal Forms Metal Exhibition, March issue of Korean Design Magazine & Summer Issue of Metalsmith Magazine.

  • 1984 Review: Ivy Ross' Forms in Metal Exhibition, February Issue of Korean Design Magazine. Fall 1983 Article: "8 Korean Metalsmiths", Fall Issue of Metalsmith Magazine.

  • Summer 1983 Review: Susan Tamulevich's One Person Jewelry Show, Metalsmith Magazine, Summer

  • 04/1981 Review: Washington, D. C. Area Korean Art Students' Group Exhibition, April 9 of Han Kook Shimbo (Newspaper).

  • 1980, 79, 78 Articles for Montgomery College Korean Students' League Annual Magazine

  • 1979 Komelia Hongja Okim & "Korean Artists in Washington, D.C. Area", Visual Industrial Design and Crafts, Seoul, Korea, (January pp. 58-61).

  • 1978 Review: Korean Artists' Association of the Greater Washington, D. C. Annual Show (Korea Times)

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Affilitions

Professional & Community Affiliation

  • 2015-Present Korean Metal Craft Advisory Boards, Seoul, Korea (12 Professor-Members)

  • 2014-Present Founder/Advisor: “ EWHA Nok Mee Hwei of Washington DC”

  • 2009-Present Founder: Ewha Ats Association of Washington D C (“Washington Pear”)

  • 2010-Present Member of the Korean International Women Networking (KOWINNER)

  • 2009-2016 Member of the Korean Women Networking (KOWIN DC)

  • 1969- 2015 Member of Society of North America Goldsmiths (SNAG)

  • 1977-2015 Board Member; Korean American Scholarship Foundation, Eastern Regional Chapter (KASF-ERC)

  • 1975- Present Member: Ewha Womans University of the Washington DC Chapter: President (2010-’11);

  • 1975- Present Member of Jin Myung High School Alumnae Association of Metropolitan of Washington DC; Founding member, President: 1977

  • 1975- Present Han-Mee Artists Association of Greater Washington DC, Founding member, President (1977), Advisory Board (2005-‘00) & Advisor Emeritus (2015- ) (HMAA GW)

  • 1983- Present Member of the Fulbright-Hays International Scholars’ Association of USA 2012-‘14 Chairwoman; Ewha Womans University Alumnae Association of Greater Washington (EWUAAGW)

  • 2009-Present Honored Member, Washington Guild of Goldsmiths (WGG)

  • 2007-2008 Chairperson, Korean American Scholarship Foundation National Board (KASF NB)

  • 1994-2010 Founder/President: Ewha International Metal Arts Association,(EIMA; “E Kum Hwei”) Korea/USA

  • 1975-2000 Member of Washington Goldsmiths

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Gallery Affiliation

  • 1981- Present Gallery Hyundai, Seoul, Korea

  • 2005- Present MK Gallery, Vienna, VA, USA

  • 2003-2012 Loft Gallery, Honolulu, HI, USA

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