In honor of Kim Jung Gi's birthday today, I wanted to pay tribute to this legendary artist. Kim Jung Gi is a South Korean Illustrator known for his detailed ink and brush style of work and ability to draw from memory. Just looking at both his process of drawing and sketchbook tour on YouTube was an incredible sight to behold. According to an interview on the "Proko" YouTube channel Kim Jung Gi stated that drawing to him is similar to breathing (which I can relate to) as well as stating that he draws what he wants to regardless of political correctness.

Sadly on October 3rd, 2022, Kim Jung Gi passed away due to a heart attack. He was on a plane traveling to New York from Paris, France; he was gonna appear at NYCC when he started experiencing chest pains and after being rushed to the hospital, he passed away shortly after.

One advice that Kim Jung Gi gave to young artists is when it comes to doing commissions to do it 'cause you love drawing rather than financial gain, if you do it just for the money, you're doing commissions for the wrong reasons. Also, regarding social media to not be so dependent on "likes or shares" of your work (aka "15 seconds of fame").

Rest in Peace, Kim Jung Gi (02/07/1975 - 10/03/2022)