The evocative S(PA)RROW series, also known as The Sorrow series, delves into the depths of the artist's emotions and vulnerability, as it reflects their position in the world. These symbolic paintings capture the ever-changing states of mind, the lessons learned, the emotions released, and the discoveries unearthed. The personified Sparrow, the expressive flora, and the subtle glimmers of gold weave a narrative of hope within the canvas. In essence, the artist recreates life through these raw, heartfelt, and universally relatable stories that chronicle their journey.
Each artwork is intentionally crafted on the raw side of the canvas, mirroring the process of nurturing plant life and allowing flowers to bloom. The canvas is first stained and primed with gesso, laying the groundwork for a sturdy foundation. Carefully chosen colours are then applied, followed by the intricate details of gold leaf and thread, which bring the story to life. Symbolism lies at the heart of the artist's expressive language. From the raw canvas foundation to the selection of images, colours, and hand-dyed cotton threads, each element signifies life and the notion that everything must be built from nothing. The cotton threads, deliberately placed with both purpose and chaos, further underscore the intricate balance that defines our existence. |
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black irisBlack Iris (2018)
120cm x 90cm Acrylic, hand dyed cotton threads on raw canvas. "Black Iris" unfolds as an enigmatic chapter within the introspective S(PA)RROW series, which delves into the artist's emotional landscape and the vulnerable spaces that define our existence in this world. Through symbolic elements, the series portrays the evolving mental states, lessons, and revelations of the artist, with the personified Sparrow, the expressive flora, and the glimmers of gold offering hope amidst the emotional journey. Each artwork, painted on raw canvas, becomes a relatable and deeply personal reflection of life's transformative experiences.
In the creation of "Black Iris," the raw side of the canvas serves as a nurturing ground, akin to the cultivation of flourishing plant life. The artist begins by staining the canvas and applying gesso, forging a solid foundation. Color is then meticulously layered, followed by the intricate details of gold leaf and thread, which complete the poignant narrative. The heavy reliance on symbolism is evident in the "Black Iris" as the artist weaves a tale of disorientation and loneliness through the carefully chosen imagery, colors, and hand-dyed cotton threads. The enigmatic Black Iris flower, signifying "Oxymoron," encapsulates the contradictory emotions the artist experiences as an expatriate in a foreign land – a place where her existence feels unreal and disconnected from the world around her. Through the haunting beauty and solitude embodied in "Black Iris," the artist invites the viewer to explore the complexities of human emotion and the dissonance that can arise when navigating unfamiliar territory. It is a compelling reminder of the universal nature of our personal struggles and the shared desire for connection and belonging. |
daffodilDaffodil (self portrait - 2018)
50cm x 40cm Acrylic, marker, gold leaf, hand dyed cotton threads on raw canvas. SOLD "Daffodil" emerges as a poignant narrative within the emotionally charged S(PA)RROW series, which delves into the artist's personal exploration of vulnerability, self-discovery, and transformation. Symbolic elements intertwine to unveil the story of the artist's mental and emotional state, as the Sparrow assumes a humanized role, the flora unfolds the tale, and the glimmers of gold embody hope. The raw canvas becomes the stage for these evocative, relatable tales that poetically recreate life's ever-evolving journey.
As the creative process mirrors the nurturing of botanical growth, the "Daffodil" is intentionally painted on the raw side of the canvas. Akin to cultivating fertile soil for plant life, the artist first stains the canvas and applies gesso to establish a sturdy foundation. Delicate hues are then layered onto the groundwork, and the intricate details of gold leaf and thread breathe life into the narrative. Symbolism serves as the artist's primary means of expression, with each element carefully selected to represent the interconnectedness of life and the process of creation from a blank canvas. The hand-dyed cotton threads, meticulously stitched into place, evoke the delicate balance of purpose and chaos in our existence. In "Daffodil," the artist captures a deeply personal moment of transition, reflecting upon the first 300 days in London after relocating from Sydney. The painting's hair symbolizes the passage of time and the metamorphosis that accompanies such a significant life change. Through this evocative piece, the artist invites the viewer to share in the journey and find resonance within the complex tapestry of human emotion and experience. |
magnoliaMagnolia (2018)
120cm x 90cm Acrylic, marker, gold leaf, hand dyed cotton threads on raw canvas. "Magnolia" is an evocative portrayal of the artist's journey of self-discovery, prompted by a period of upheaval and transformation. The painting delves into the raw, emotional process of rebuilding one's life and coming to terms with a new reality. Within the artwork, the Sparrow serves as a symbol of the artist's childhood self, reminiscent of the playful, carefree birds that populated their memories of growing up in Korea.
Perched atop the image of a Magnolia tree, the Sparrow simultaneously evokes a sense of beauty and the lingering shadows of a deeply ingrained, traumatic childhood memory. This visceral recollection resurfaces twenty years later, following a move across the globe that upended the artist's carefully constructed sense of safety, stability, and comfort. The Sparrow's expression captures the artist's inner turmoil, self-loathing, and loss of identity during this tumultuous period. Bound by a red string around its ankle, the Sparrow is further weighed down by the burdens of marriage and unresolved childhood trauma. This tethering to the past is visually echoed in the artist's signature, which is placed unconventionally on the bottom left side of the canvas. This departure from the traditional placement on the right side signifies the artist's ardent pursuit of independence and the reclamation of their identity. |
gladiola |
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