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Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.
What is your earliest memory?
When I was four years old, my mother took me to an art academy. I was the youngest student there, and I remember wearing a yellow outfit. Among the older students (who were such skilled artists) I doodled freely with crayons on paper, enjoying every moment of it. Ha ha!Who was or still is your mentor?
I found the keys to unlock my artistic journey on my own. Perhaps it was best that I trusted myself and ventured beyond the typical path.How fit are you?
I used to suffer from severe depression, struggling to even get out of bed. Now I actively engage in counselling and therapy, and my work has become a part of my daily routines, which have improved both my physical and mental wellbeing. I wake up in the morning, have a glass of water, go for a walk or a light jog, have a cup of coffee while sketching out ideas, then have lunch and dive into my work. This keeps me grounded and focused.Tell me about an animal you have loved.
I adored my ex-boyfriend’s dog, Genie. She was sensitive, but loved being showered with affection. Genie passed away due to illness and we held a funeral for her. I cherish all animals. Cats have a special place in my heart, but reptiles and jellyfish are my all-time favourites.Risk or caution, which has defined your life more?
Risk. I try to be cautious and careful, but without action, nothing changes. So I willingly throw all my energy into emotional challenges. Passion and focus, without excessive concern about risks, are crucial to me.What trait do you find most irritating in others?
Especially in public spaces, manners matter to me. Loud voices, littering and invading personal space make me uncomfortable.What trait do you find most irritating in yourself?
Being too hard on myself and striving for perfection. I believe it’s detrimental to my mental health.What drives you on?
Novelty! Unique ideas. The colour black, the moon, the stars — these excite me. Inspiration often strikes while reading books or watching films. I enjoy the dark and quiet of a movie theatre for this reason. I’m also a big fan of vintage shops. Old items have a comforting effect on my soul. Morning walks, cosy naps in peaceful spots, watching the sunset from a window and occasionally sipping a martini at a nearby bar late at night — these are all things I love and find myself immersed in.Do you believe in an afterlife?
Nope. When circumstances render life no longer sustainable, we die and decay. While I do believe in an individual’s soul, luck and destiny, the afterlife has no place in my beliefs.Which is more puzzling, the existence of suffering or its frequent absence?
The act of creation is often associated with pain. In that sense, I’ve become accustomed to drawing the emotions that shake me up. It’s rare for there to be none. Satisfaction often comes with the presence of pain.Name your favourite river.
The Han in Seoul is lovely. I live quite close to it. It offers mesmerising views. There are so many emotions embedded in the river.What would you have done differently?
Given the many things I couldn’t change by my own strength, I am proud of how I endured and fought through it all. I wouldn’t change anything.
‘I Need Art: Reality Isn’t Enough’ by Henn Kim is published by Bloomsbury
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