YK Art Union

Artist Journal:

YK Art Union: A Journey of Art and Connection

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Founding the YK Art Union (YKAU) was an act of pure determination. It started as a vision—a space where art could transcend boundaries: "No age limit, no major restrictions—join us to draw, explore museums, and connect through art." This ethos shaped every decision, every flier, and every meeting. But turning that vision into reality demanded more from me than I ever anticipated.​

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I launched YKAU without a team, unsure if I could carry the weight alone. Even the foundational task of registering the club proved challenging. Without co-leaders or a treasurer, I persuaded an old roommate to lend their name as vice president. That step set everything into motion, and I became a leader out of necessity, not by design.​

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Building the club was like creating art itself—meticulous, layered, and at times chaotic. I handled every detail, from posting fliers across seven high-rise school buildings to organizing gatherings at galleries and museums. Our group explored and drew, sharing our interpretations of the art around us.​

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The real magic of YKAU lay in its members. We brought together a mix of talents—international students, designers, photographers, and more. Each meeting became a melting pot of ideas and perspectives, enriching our collective understanding of art. These exchanges were transformative, deepening my appreciation for collaboration and diverse viewpoints.​

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Running YKAU was as demanding as it was rewarding. I was managing schedules, budgets, and fostering a sense of belonging within the group. The experience was eye-opening, revealing strengths in myself I hadn’t recognized before. I learned that leadership isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up, being present, and staying committed to a shared purpose.​

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Looking back, YKAU was more than a club—it was a community fueled by passion and creativity. It taught me that art isn’t confined to the individual; it flourishes when shared, discussed, and reimagined with others. Leading YKAU deepened my commitment to making art education more inclusive, particularly for underrepresented groups, and it continues to shape how I approach art and connection in every facet of my life.