S. Sam Park, a renowned artist born in 1949 in Seoul, Korea, discovered his passion for painting at the tender age of twelve. Recognizing his talent and teaching abilities, he began teaching at a local high school while still a junior high school student. Park graduated from Jung Ang University in 1973 and soon after embarked on a journey to France, where he studied painting and lived with other young artists in Paris. The influence of French Impressionists can still be observed in his artistic style.

In 1984, Park briefly returned to Korea to participate in the national Olympic-sponsored art competition for the upcoming 1988 Seoul Olympic Games. With over 2,000 entrants, he emerged victorious, earning a Gold Medal. Following the Olympics, his winning painting was purchased by the Hyundai Corporation for permanent display in their corporate headquarters. In 1986, Park became a juror for the Heart and Mind Artists Association of Korea, responsible for assessing artwork presented for juried competition in the country.

After his stint in Korea, Park returned to Europe, where he lived for the next fourteen years, primarily in France but also in Greece and Cyprus. While in Cyprus, he was commissioned by the President of Cyprus to paint a portrait of the First Lady. This and five other paintings by Park are currently displayed in the collection at the Presidential Palace. Throughout his European travels, Park continued to study and evolve his interpretation of impressionism and hyper-realism. He established himself in several European galleries and continues to exhibit in many of them today.

Park moved to the United States in 1994, where he has resided in Southern California ever since. He has exhibited in several American galleries, including the New York Art Expo.

Recognized, acknowledged, and collected around the world, Park’s artistic style is reminiscent of the great impressionist painters, complemented by a vibrant color palette. He is best known for his European landscapes and cityscapes. Early in his career, he gained the attention of prominent artists and political figures, including Byun Si-Jin, former University President of Jo-Joo Island, who served as his private art teacher and mentor. The former President of South Korea, Yoo Bo-Sun, personally awarded Park several first-place honors in the national Mok-Woo Art Society competition. Park remains the youngest person ever to have competed in these competitions.

Park’s unique approach to painting is characterized by a soft, romantic light that reflects his pursuit of harmony and serenity. Rather than challenging or confronting the viewer, his art aims to reassure and comfort. The canvas comes alive with beautiful, refreshing, invigorating colors, as if one can feel the gentle Mediterranean breezes. Park’s ability to capture light and paint a diverse range of subjects has contributed to his global success and recognition. In his words, “If I can capture the sky, from whose light all color flows, I know the rest of the picture will fall into place. Next, I paint the sea. Finally, I fill in that which lies between.”