My name is Ji Young, but I go by Jiji!

My artist alias, baddjoojoo, combines my favorite childhood Korean popsicle called “Jjoo Jjoo Bah (쭈쭈바)” and bad juju, a phrase that stems from West Africa, meaning misfortune or spiritual bad luck. I have a mole under each eye, which represents a life of sorrow and tears in East Asian mole-readings. Though it used to be a large insecurity of mine, I have grown an appreciation towards these moles. And contrary to Korean mole omens, I believe that I’m incredibly lucky and happy.

I graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, specializing in Graphic Design, from the University of Maryland, College Park in Spring 2024. I am preparing and working towards earning my Master’s in Illustration to become a Fine Arts professor.

Though I never considered tattooing to be my main profession, I am so incredibly grateful to have found this medium. I have met so many amazing people throughout this journey, and I am so thankful to those who appreciate my work.