Nature is the focus of Pacific Beach Library art exhibition

Nature in San Diego and beyond has served as inspiration for San Diego artist Young Min Jo.

The resulting exhibit, “Late Autumn in San Diego,” can be seen in the Pacific Beach/Taylor Library’s Community Room for free through Jan. 30 whenever the library is open.

“I hope the community enjoys my artworks, even though they are humble pieces,” Young said.

His paintings reflect peaceful scenes of beaches, palm trees, harbors and nature. They include notable locations around San Diego and scenes from across the world on bright, colorful canvas.

“Through the use of color, texture and form, I hope to create a sense of calm, reflection, and presence,” he said. “Each painting is an invitation to pause and notice the beauty that surrounds us in our daily lives. My goal is to simply capture and share what I observe and feel, and to connect with others through that shared sense of wonder.”

Viewers will have an opportunity to meet Young during a free reception from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Jan. 17 in the library, 4275 Cass Street.

When Young moved to San Diego in 1991, he began familiarizing himself with his new home by taking note of the people and places that represent San Diego. That is why when he began painting, scenes of nature, architecture and culture came naturally.

“I started to paint about 10 years ago,” Young said. “Mostly, I like to paint landscapes. My painting style can be said to be oriented towards impressionism.”

Learning to paint became both a hobby and a craft, something Young said he grew to love as he immersed himself deeper in San Diego.

“When I was looking for a new area of life to explore, fine art came to my mind,” he said. “Then I luckily met a professional painter … from Korea. He taught me the basics of painting.”

In 2019, Young’s work was featured at the Mission Valley Library, marking his first exhibition that he said was fueled by an eagerness to share his creations and expand his audience.

Now, Young said he is thrilled to once again share his latest creations, this time with the Pacific Beach community.

“Several months ago … I was looking for an opportunity for my second solo exhibition,” he said. “I believe having an exhibition from time-to-time is very necessary for an artist for self-motivation, like having tests for students.

“I am very grateful to have an opportunity to display my artwork at this beautiful library, which is located at such a beautiful location,” he said.

Young’s paintings depict nature scenes from across San Diego and beyond.

“Over the years, my artistic journey has been shaped by traveling and living on three continents,” he said. “These experiences have given me a broader perspective and a deep appreciation for different cultures, which continues to influence my work.

“I enjoy travelling all over the world whenever possible and I record the exotic and wonderful scenes. When I return home, I … like to transfer the scenery to the canvas,” he said.

Influenced heavily by the world around him, Young said he views painting as a visual journal, a form of artistic expression that allows him to remember and cherish the places he has been and seen.

“My paintings often act as a visual journal, capturing small, fleeting moments and subtle details,” he said. “I’m especially drawn to the relationship between human life and the natural world, and I try to weave them together in my artwork.”

Want to go?

“Late Autumn in San Diego”

When: now through Jan. 30 during library operating hours.

Where: Pacific Beach/Taylor Library’s Community Room, 4275 Cass Street.

Artist reception: 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Jan. 17.

Cost: free

Website: tinyurl.com/PBart-Jan26

Phone: 858-581-9934