This Travel Diary takes us in the footsteps of the well-known, multidisciplinary Hera Kim, founder of Tinkertailor, AI designer, florist and art director.
With a very rich background which combines her skills, from the artistic but also floral fields, hence her taste for vegetal world but also an interest in science and technology, she combines all of this to create surprising, always harmonious settings. This applies to fashion but also to architecture. Major luxury brands can only be seduced by its cutting-edge approach.
Very avant-garde, the futuristic architecture of Seoul mixes with traditions. Hera Kim embodies this overflowing creative wealth. HER very particular universe, of effervescent modernity, uses the latest technologies to imagine remarkable settings.
"Through Tinkertailor, I create transformative, immersive visuals that reflect both elegance and innovation, turning dreams into dazzling realities.”
Let’s follow her through her inspirations in Seoul but also in Milan, Paris….
HERE IS THE PORTRAIT OF A YOUNG TALENTED ARTIST!
SEOUL, WHERE TRADITION MEETS MODERNITY
"Seoul is undeniably my home. However, whenever I visit Europe, especially Milan and London, I feel an incredible sense of comfort and connection. Milan, with its rich heritage in interior design, has greatly influenced my approach to space and aesthetics.
Meanwhile, London has inspired me with its royal flower design traditions, which carry a timeless, regal beauty. The city’s approach to floristry, blending classic arrangements with modern artistry, resonates deeply with my roots as a florist. Together, these cities embody a shared aesthetic that feels like a second home, even though Seoul will always be my foundation."
Photography by Hera Kim
MILAN
HOW THIS CITY SHAPED HER WORK
"Milan is truly my soul city. I feel incredibly fortunate to have spent my school years there, as it shaped not only my artistic vision but also my outlook on life.
Photography by Manuel Weber, by Mattero Flaminio on Unsplash
I was fascinated by the city’s store designs, each space crafted with such meticulous detail and character, almost like a piece of art itself. Walking through Milan’s streets felt like an endless journey of inspiration, and those experiences continue to influence my work today.
Photography by Victor on Unsplash and by Carol Tamm on Pexels
AI WONDERLAND
FANTASTIC REALM
HerA Kim art is almost magical, a mix of nature elements, architecture, fashion using AI.
My style is the result of a journey that combines diverse experiences and influences. I’ve had the unique opportunity to explore multiple fields - not just design, but also engineering and floristry. This blend of technical precision and organic beauty is at the heart of my work.
As an engineer, I developed an appreciation for structure and detail, while my background in floristry taught me the language of nature, with its forms, colours, and textures. I've always been drawn to the realm of fantasy, and even now, I still believe in magic and the transformative power of art.
Campaign design for New Zealand Royal Ballet "A Midsummer Night’s Dream"
"My work is a manifestation of these beliefs, an attempt to capture a sense of wonder and enchantment by blending natural elements with architectural precision, fashion, and AI. It’s an ever - evolving journey, but at its core, it’s about bringing a little bit of magic into the world.”
"I aimed to create a visual that felt both luxurious and immersive. Since visual art can’t convey fragrance, I focused on crafting textures that evoke a sensory experience, making the imagery eel almost tangible. By layering these rich textures and adding subtle motion graphics - like the gentle flow of water and the delicate movements of butterflies - I sought to give viewers a sense of sensuality and warmth that resonates with the essence of the fragrance. I especially enjoyed working with the colour palette of aqua blue, gold, and black, which adds elegance and depth to the artwork.
What I love most about this campaign is how these subtle details bring the image to life, creating an enchanting, atmospheric experience."
Motion @tinkertailorart
Photography by Dorian Le Senechal Unsplash
ART MAKES SENSE
WHEN TRAVEL LEADS TO INSPIRATION - CENTRE POMPIDOU PARIS
Travelling is a major source of inspiration for me, as it exposes me to diverse cultures, landscapes, and art forms. I love visiting all kinds of museums, but my favourite is the Pompidou in Paris for its bold, modern approach to art and design.
"The Brancusi exhibition left a lasting impression on me. The freedom and elegance embodied in his works, combined with the intricate gold details and textures, were truly captivating. It felt like stepping into a world where simplicity meets profound meaning."
Photography by Baran Kilic Unsplash
Photography @md_desmarais @verob_75
Another inspiring experience is attending the Salone del Mobile in Milan, especially the Fuori Salone, where creativity and innovation take over the city. The atmosphere there is electric, with cutting-edge installations that push the boundaries of design. I’m excited to be planning my own exhibition soon, where I aim to blend technology with art to create an immersive experience for viewers.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
MONUMENTAL AND UNIQUE
While Korea is widely known for its technology and pop culture, Gyeongbokgung offers a glimpse into the rich traditional heritage that also plays a significant role. The palace’s grand architecture, beautiful gardens, and serene ponds make it a remarkable place to experience Korean history and tradition.
Photography @cecilia_prati
Hidden Gem, Seokpajeong
NATURE HIDEAWAY
"Nestled amidst stunning landscapes, it has a distinctive, calming atmosphere that feels worlds away from the busy city. The peaceful surroundings are perfect for unwinding, offering a cosy, relaxing escape with views that highlight Korea’s natural beauty."
EXPERIENCE the KOREAN SPECIALTIES and immerse yourself in THE LOCAL CULTURE
Mingles is a fusion restaurant that beautifully combines Korean tradition with modern style, both in its cuisine and decor.
I love their meticulous attention to detail, from the presentation of each dish to the ambiance of the space - it’s a true celebration of Korean flavours with a contemporary twist!
"In Korea, sujebi is a comforting, Korean-style pasta soup made with hand-torn dough. Sujebi with seafood is my ultimate soul food; its savoury flavour reminds me of home and tradition, yet has a unique profile that’s purely Korean."
Chef Mingoo Kang is still in his early 30’s, but has already built an impressive résumé outside of Korea. After becoming the youngest head chef at Nobu Bahamas (part of renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s empire), Kang returned to Korea.
"I gained my experience working at various locations around the globe. The U.S., Spain, France, the Bahamas, etc. ... Wherever I could enhance my culinary knowledge, I sought out apprenticeship without the constraints of borders or environment." The name Mingles doesn’t just reference the chef’s name, it also signifies a “harmonious mix of different things.”
Photography @mingles
BACK TO NATURE
FLORA COMES TO LIFE
Nature and flowers are an essential part of my visual identity, representing the harmony and vitality I aim to convey in my work. I focus on capturing their subtle textures, movement, and essence so that viewers can almost feel the breeze and imagine the fragrance as they experience each piece. While AI hasn’t yet evolved to bring scent directly into digital art, I believe it’s only a matter of time before technology can simulate these immersive sensory experiences.
"I see AI advancing toward a future where it can engage all senses, creating deeply layered experiences that go beyond visuals alone, making digital art more evocative and immersive than ever."
Images @tinkertailorart
SEOUL, REMARKABLE ARCHITECTURE
LOUIS VUITTON MAISON, VERY INSPIRING
Architect Franck Ghery with interiors by Peter Marino
Photography by Yong Joon Choi.
LA VIE EN ROSE
"WELTON ROSE EMPIRE sounds absolutely enchanting, and I would love to explore it. I’m always drawn to fragrances with a rose profile, so it seems like a perfect match for my tastes."
For scents, I’m captivated by the smell of roses. Most people don’t realize there are over 300 varieties, each with its own unique shape, colour, and fragrance.
My favourite is the garden rose, particularly the 'Nahema' variety.
As for perfume, Gucci Bloom is my favourite; it beautifully captures the essence of a lush, floral garden.
A TASTE FOR STYLE
Images @tinkertailorart
Fashion has always been an essential part of my life. During university, I even worked as a visual merchandiser. Those experiences shaped my eye for detail and the importance of presentation in style.
Photography @gentlemonster
GENTLE MONSTER
"A must-visit shopping destination would be Gentle Monster and Tamburins. These stores offer an experience that goes beyond the products themselves, merging art, fashion and sensory design into one immersive space. It’s a place where you can truly enjoy the art of fashion and design."
Photography @tamburinsofficial
SOUND OF MUSIC
"Music is incredibly important in my creative process - it’s both my inspiration and my muse. Finding the right music that fits the mood of my design is so essential. I often listen to artists like Breakbot and Disclosure. I’m also a big fan of K-pop, especially artists like Aespa, Blackpink and G- Dragon, who constantly push boundaries and bring fresh ideas to the industry."
