Kirk-Bear Canyon Library invites you to an exhibit by local artist Mee Young Hileman, on display until February 28, 2026.
Artist Statement:
My name is Mee Young Hileman, and I live in Tucson. I was born in South Korea and immigrated to the United States as an adult. I later became an American citizen and began studying art in college to fulfill my childhood dream of becoming an artist. Because the art school I hoped to attend was too far from where I lived, I instead majored in social work and worked in that field. Even so, I rediscovered-day by day-that painting brought me the same inner peace and happiness I had felt in my childhood.
After my children became adults and left home, my husband and I retired. I now look back on my life and feel a strong desire to express my experiences and emotions on canvas. Today, I primarily work with acrylic paint, using it to convey a sense of inner peace and stability. Although each person’s life and thoughts are different, I believe we all seek peace of mind at the beginning and end of each day. The same is true at the beginning and end of a season, a year, and even a life.
I am drawn to capturing moments that inspire or move me-pausing them and translating them onto canvas. Returning to these moments through my finished work brings me quiet joy. I believe this kind of happiness can remain in our hearts for a long time. I am honored and grateful to share my work with the community.
Exhibitions and Experience: I participated in student art exhibits at Gulf Coast State College in Florida. My drawings and Illustrations were included in books and a college newspaper, and my oil paintings and sculptures were displayed at Florida State University. I also displayed my artwork at the Sahuarita Library during September and October 2025.
