Imagining a rich feast of colors

My work is composed around a theme and focuses on the correlation between modeling and methodology. Initially, my work told the stories of simple, ordinary people, and currently my range has broadened to include perceptions on culture and religion, and uses semiological techniques to render those sensibilities onto the canvas. My work confronts the human condition all around the canvas, where random dialogues are being said. Yet it also captures an underlying humor and satire, though at first it may not be easy to grasp. In any case, since I don't hold a constrained notion of my work as a means of enlightenment or knowledge, the narratives of my works are developed rather figuratively. There are patterns that appear regularly on the canvas. From the spine, the heart shape, symbols indicating the structure of DNA, sun and moon, and fluttering rays are connected. A detailed look would reveal that the images of these objects convey a satirical portrait of the social condition through dialogues, with mixed feelings of affection, prejudice, temptation, and conceit. My works contain a double-layered context. While they capture the amusements of everyday conversation, they also have a disheartening or tragic existentialist mood. While the forms against the background are mostly observing human nature from afar, the background is rather an introspective opening that shows a personal reflection and expression of mental images. The contrast between the existential background and satirical forms in my works doesn't make for a simple kind of humor. The figures associated with the scribbling on the surface are an important point worth close examination. The shapes have a lighter quality of conspicuous, linear shading more than being distinct and solid. I want to show more of the quickness and movement of linear drawing. Linear drawing, using color marker or rough brush stroke, diverts from the matiere and penetrates through the background's several layers, giving off an organic energy. What I am always concerned with in my work is to sublate the mass production of monotonous colors, aiming for a coloring that appears as if it was done by several artists. It's not an easy task, but it's always on my mind. Though my words are short, simple and inarticulate, I want to inwardly advise towards contemplating the essence of our lives through manners of speaking that are overflowing with sentiment.

Seop Kim.

Translated by Si-eun Lee (Hongik University, Dept. of Art Studies)