“I have many good memories from my career so far:
the first time I started a comic book series, and the
day my first sketchbook was published, for example.
But my best memories are of my exhibitions.
The first one in Korea really stands out. Another is
the solo exhibition in Japan that I did with Takashi
Murakami. The exhibition was memorable, but
seeing Takashi’s art in person, getting his advice and
encouragement – these things helped me move
forward. It was all great inspiration.
An exhibition in France helped me gain confidence
that my work would translate across the continents.
During my world tours, I talk to lots of artists who
I admire. They’re always so gracious. It’s such a boost
of positive energy. But I also meet fans who love my
artwork. These moments are just as important,
because they help me become a better artist.”the beneFits
oF tourinG
Gi reveals how exhibiting his artwork
inspires him to become a better artistthe Art of visuAlisAtion
“I can complete an artwork without
a sketch or prior visual exploration.
I can draw what I visualise in my
head straight on to paper.”Artist Portfolio
42 August 2017
the oBserver
As a child, Gi preferred to
watch other kids playing
rather than joining in
with them. These
observational skills are
central to his work.Ghost in the Shell movie, for
example, I ended up drawing that
twice, because I didn’t like the face of
the main character, and the
composition didn’t come up to my
usual standard.
“But most of the time I come up with
ideas and work on the content alone.
I’m sure that’s what my clients would
expect when they hire me.”no speCiAl pAper required
Gi starts his workday by collecting
references. He f lips through these
photos every day, so he can “save”
them in his head. Commissioned work
always comes first – those with
looming deadlines. But, perhapssurprisingly for such a precise artists,
he isn’t precious about where he works
or the materials that he uses.
“No special paper is required,” he
says. “Unless I’m working on a
commissioned work, I draw on any
space, any paper – a napkin, scratch
paper, even a table can become my
new canvas.