KCAI, Ceramics Department Featured in “Monthly Ceramic Art Korea” Magazine
03.04.2025
SunYoung Park, who has served as a lecturer and visiting critic at KCAI, wrote the article for the February 2025 edition of the publication. The magazine focuses on contemporary ceramic art both in Korea and internationally.
SunYoung Park describes the Kansas City Art Institute as “a cradle of art where tradition and innovation coexist” in her article for Monthly Ceramic Art Korea. She recalls her first visit to the school in 2021, when, after meeting Cary Esser at the Belger Arts Center (where Park was a resident artist), she was invited to participate in a critique of sophomore midterm work.
“The students' passion and dedication to their work left a lasting impression on me, reflecting the department's reputation as one of the best in the U.S.,” Park writes, while translating the article from Korean.
The article, featured in the February 2025 edition of the magazine, details Park’s experience at KCAI and explores its history for a Korean audience. Viewing the Kansas City art scene as 'unique,' a member of the magazine’s publication team requested the article after Park explained the creative energy within the city and at KCAI.
Park says that writing about her experience at KCAI is vital because it allows her to share the transformative power of art education with a Korean audience. “As someone straddling two cultures, I want to highlight how KCAI integrates creativity with community, empowering artists to connect their work to broader, shared human experiences,” she explains.
The article also highlights KCAI’s long standing legacy and its nurturing environment that fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and artistic growth. Given the publication's focus, Park praises KCAI’s Ceramics department for its strong faculty-student relationships, with professors not only teaching technical skills but also mentoring students through creative exploration. Additionally, she emphasizes the practical value of KCAI’s Professional Practice Center, which prepares students for successful careers in the arts by providing valuable career insights and guidance.
Shining a Spotlight
Professor Paul Donnelly, The Kathleen Collins Chair of Ceramics, reflected on the article, saying, "Our faculty and students are thrilled to receive this international recognition. We are deeply grateful to SunYoung Park for taking the time to write this article and shine a spotlight on both our institution and the ceramic arts scene in the Kansas City region."
He added, "Ceramics holds significance in nearly every culture, and we are honored to highlight the diverse, creative approaches we take to this medium."
Launched in April 1996, Monthly Ceramic Art is Korea’s first and only ceramic art magazine. The publication covers contemporary ceramic art on both a national and international scale, showcasing a diverse range of techniques and exhibitions. It also delves into the rich history of Korean pottery, frequently highlighting iconic pieces like the "moon jar" and celadon styles, all while placing them within the broader context of Korean art and cultural heritage.