Seonjoo S Oh

SeonJoo Oh, the creative force behind So Cool Crafts, brings the ancient Korean art of paper manipulation to life through meticulous craftsmanship, fashioning intricate paper creations like tulip bouquets and soaring cranes. As the owner of Shorewood’s So Cool Crafts studio, her workspace overflows with vibrant paper and instructional books. SeonJoo shares her expertise through local classes and children’s parties, igniting creativity in all age groups. Her journey from biochemistry in South Korea to earning a master’s degree in education in the United States is a testament to her unwavering determination. Notably, in 2022, she was recognized as the Artist of the Year by Professional Dimension’s IMPRINT Award for Women, cementing her status as a distinguished artist in the field.

What energizes you as you consider the future of the arts in Wisconsin?

Milwaukee has become a second home to me, where I have had the opportunity to introduce Korean paper folding, paper crafts, and the use of Hanji, along with various paper materials, especially in recycling art. As I envision the future of the arts in Wisconsin, I am invigorated by the prospect of creating new artworks every day, contributing to the vibrant art scene in this region. I also find fulfillment in sharing my experiences of using paper crafts as a means to alleviate the stress and difficulties I faced during challenging times, as mentioned in my biography.

One of my greatest aspirations is to offer children the opportunity to step away from smartphones and the digital world, even if briefly, and engage in the joyous experience of creating something with their own hands. In Korea, there is a belief that using one’s hands extensively improves cognitive abilities, and I want to help young children initiate their journey toward nurturing their creativity, just as I did. Through my studio, So Cool Crafts, and my involvement in local artistic communities like the Shorewood Artisan Market and the Shorewood Artists Guild, I hope to continue contributing to the rich tapestry of the arts in Wisconsin and inspiring others to embrace the beauty of paper artistry.

Where can we find your work?

You can find SeonJoo’s work on Facebook, or on her website: www.ceeya.io/at/seonjooso.