Yong Soon Min, a prominent Korean American artist recognized for her thought-provoking exploration of Asian identity in the diaspora, passed away at the age of 70 in her home in Los Angeles. The Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles (ICA LA), where Min served on the artist advisory council, announced her demise on Wednesday.
Anne Ellegood, director of ICA LA, expressed gratitude for Min’s invaluable contributions to the institution, emphasizing her role in shaping vital discussions on identity within the art community. Ellegood praised Min’s wisdom, generosity, and collaborative spirit, stating that her legacy would endure through her impactful work.
Min’s influence extended beyond her artistic endeavours; she was an active member of various Asian American artist networks, including the Godzilla Asian American Arts Network and the GYOPO collective. These affiliations allowed Min to advocate for greater visibility and representation of artists from Asian communities, fostering collaboration and support among peers.
Throughout her career, Min delved deeply into her own experiences as an artist straddling multiple cultural identities. Her works, such as “Make Me” (1989) and “Defining Moments” (1992), challenged prevailing notions of race, gender, and class. By integrating personal narratives with broader socio-political contexts, Min offered incisive commentary on the complexities of Asian American identity.
Born in Bugok, South Korea, in 1953, Min immigrated to the United States with her family at a young age. She pursued her artistic education at the University of California, Berkeley, during the 1970s, where she forged influential connections with fellow artists, including Theresa Hak Kyung Cha. Min later relocated to New York City, where she became deeply engaged in the burgeoning Asian American art scene of the 1980s.
Despite facing challenges and undergoing personal hardships, including a brain haemorrhage in 2011, Min remained dedicated to her artistic practice and continued to produce meaningful work. Her resilience and unwavering commitment to exploring themes of identity and belonging left a lasting impact on the art world.
Min’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow artists and colleagues, who praised her as a trailblazer and mentor. Gala Porras-Kim, an artist deeply influenced by Min’s work, hailed her as an inspiration to multiple generations of artists in Los Angeles, underscoring her enduring legacy in the hearts and minds of many.
As the art community mourns the loss of Yong Soon Min, her contributions to the discourse on Asian American identity and her dedication to fostering inclusivity and collaboration serve as a testament to her enduring influence and profound impact on the artistic landscape.