Story behind the art of Hyojung Kim

28th Annual International

American Society of Botanical Artists and Marin Art & Garden Center

Grace in a Day

Hemerocallis 'Edge Ahead'

Jade Garden near Seoul, Korea is a beautiful, European-style arboretum with 24 themed gardens, set quietly in a forest. As a member, I visit with my family whenever time allows. From late June to July, when the summer heat begins and daylilies bloom, the garden is dazzling, full of rich colors and shapes.

Among the many stunning varieties of daylilies that welcomed me, I was especially captivated by the elegance of ‘Edge Ahead’. They unfold in full beauty, then vanish, like a moment you wish you could hold on to just a little longer. I observed the blooming flowers closely, selecting the most vibrant and diverse forms and composing them freely, exploring depth and perspective. Graceful yet full of strength, ‘Edge Ahead’ has soft pink petals with ruffles and a bold magenta pattern in its center. It stands out not only for its beautiful palette but also for its robust and resilient beauty.

Early summer can be hot and often humid with the arrival of the rainy season in Korea. As colored pencils easily break in this moist climate, I first laid a base of light watercolor washes. Then, I sharpened my colored pencils to express the intricate details with precision.

The name Hemerocallis has its roots in the Greek words hēmera (day) and kalos (beauty). Just as the name suggests, the daylily fades within a single day. Yet from a single stem, 10 to 20 flowers bloom in succession, allowing us to enjoy their beauty for up to twenty days as they open, blossom, and fade. Recognized worldwide for their ornamental value, daylilies have long inspired research and development. Their short life makes their beauty even more precious, a quiet but brilliant moment in time. 

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Read more about this artist's work: 27th Annual