With a rich sense of color, distinctive compositions and delicate touch, Korean illustrator and designer John Kafka weaves a singular, otherworldly aesthetic – one that continually redefines the beauty of contemporary illustration. Since first gaining widespread attention through posts on social media, John has seen a growing presence in Japan as well, with solo exhibitions and notable projects which includes the music video for one of Ado’s cover songs.
Taking “Jhon”, a common English first name and “Kafka,” a direct homage to the German literary icon Franz Kafka as his artist name, his artistic identity and image still remain pretty mysterious – in this interview (Part 2), we continue to delve into his path to becoming who he is today, explore the roots of his creative vision and uncover his aspirations for the future.
Staying true to my work not to let down the people who connect with it
B – Where do you usually create your work? And, is there anything you try to keep in mind while in your creation process?
John Kafka – I usually work from home using my iPad, but I’m pretty flexible with where I work. Sometimes I’d be at a cafe, or even at my friends’ places when I’m hanging out with them. So yeah, I don’t really stick to one specific place. I typically create about 3 to 4 pieces a week, and when I’m really productive, I’ve done up to 7 in a week. I think I tend to create and share a lot because I want to keep connected with my fans. Consistency is really important to me – just steadily creating regularly. Also, I feel like I can do better work when I have music playing, especially classical.
B – How do you spend your days-off?
John Kafka – Since I like books and films (reference in Part 1), I often get inspiration while taking walks, stopping by bookstores and movie theaters. I also try to make time off to meet and talk with people. I’ve gotten to know more fellow artists who do similar work as me, and through talking with them, I’ve been able to learn more about habits and perspectives I wasn’t aware of before – they really have things I really admire and try to take in.
B – You seem to approach your work with a lot of discipline and dedication. What keeps you going?
John Kafka – It’s definitely the people and audience who engage with my work. In the past, I was often driven by a need for validation – but I think I’ve moved away from that mindset quite a bit. Now, it’s more about drawing what I truly love and finding joy in having others connect with it. I just don’t want to disappoint the people who genuinely like my art.
B – Is there a particular world or vibe you aim to create in your work?
John Kafka – I enjoy working in series based on a single concept. Right now, I’m developing a body of work centered around religious themes. I’m also becoming more focused on how to express and explain what makes my work unique – my speciality. Also, I once created a series of illustrations based on my daily emotions, which I think of as a visual diary. I thought it would be interesting to look back on those pieces years from now, as a way to reflect on the past through my own creation.
B – Is there anything you try to keep in mind during your creative process, to achieve what you’ve mentioned?
John Kafka – I try to stay mindful of not letting the influence of artists I like or admire affect my work too much. I definitely get inspired by things like music videos and other media, but I always make an effort to express things in my way, in a way that feels true to me.
John Kafka’s vision for the future
B – Tell us about new challenges you’d like to take on this year or in the coming years. I’d also like to hear your visions for the collaboration with GAAAT.
John Kafka – I’ll definitely keep creating illustrations, but I’d also like to try writing short stories. I’m interested in balancing both visual and written expression – being both an illustrator and a writer. I have an exhibition with GAAAT at The Square Hotel Ginza called DECO, running through March 31. It’s a wide-raging showcase that includes not just artwork, but also collaborations on clothing and accessories. We’ve even created original costumes for the exhibition. In the coming years, I’d challenge myself to expand these kinds of conceptual projects beyond just illustration – adding more layers and points of interest. The goal is to bring the entire exhibition space to life as a world shaped by the concept behind the artwork.
B – What’s your dream as an artist?
John Kafka – Yeah, I’d say a lot of the dreams I had when I was younger have already come true. But in the end, what I really want is for more people to see my art and the messages behind them. My hope is that my dream can become someone else’s dream – that I can become someone who inspires others.
B – Thank you. Lastly, are there any projects you’re currently working on or would like to share with readers?
John Kafka – I have a pop-up store opening in Korea (which will come to Japan as well). I also have exhibitions running and have recently released an art book in Japan, so I’d be really happy if you checked those out. The reason I keep creating is because there are people out there who see and support my work – just knowing that you are looking at what I create is enough to make me happy. We’ve talked about a lot today, but as someone who expresses through art, I also believe it’s my job to speak through my work and share my messages. I’ll keep doing my best and I truly appreciate your continued support. Thank you so much for having me today!
