Kyung Kim

Region: MFA Annual

 I create paintings using oil on clear primed linen, translating sensorial memories into images. My various sources of inspiration range from cherished objects to culturally significant artifacts, such as old Korean landscapes, architecture, and porcelain. These tangible influences intertwine with intangible elements encompassing temperature, time, sound, and scent. Through abstraction of space and shapes, I fuse these contrasting substances and capture fleeting moments that are otherwise elusive to grasp.

The use of monochromatic colors in each painting unifies all elements onto a single plane, minimizing distinctions and fostering a perception of harmonious coexistence. These colors blend with the natural hue of linen, resulting in an overall tone that is gentle and subdued. As I apply the paints my approach is not merely putting them on the surface; rather, I envision the act as a process of soaking the paint into the canvas. Hence, the work slowly unfolds and manifests itself—much like how my memories resurface. These shallow paint layers, along with areas where the colors are more assertive, establish a nuanced perception of space and generate a greater depth.