Eunjin Kim

Eunjin Kim’s artworks showcase a diverse range of striking and unconventional imagery, including birds adorned with human-like visages, colossal avian beings consuming human heads, and enigmatic creatures evoking the essence of specters and extraterrestrials. The images possess a captivating and unsettling quality, reminiscent of the artistic style of Hieronymus Bosch (1450-1516), renowned for his depictions of the underworld. They skillfully employ a diverse range of colors to bring forth surrealistic creatures. Kim successfully obtained her degree in Oriental Painting from Ewha Women’s University and further pursued her academic journey by completing a master’s degree at the esteemed New York Institute of Technology. She held her first solo exhibition at Boda gallery in 1998 and has since been actively involved, organizing 12 solo exhibitions since 2015.

Kim utilizes a range of conventional materials, including mother-of-pearl inlay, blackboard, and Oriental painting pigments. With meticulous attention to detail, she intricately captures the intricacies of societal dynamics that have shaped her own experiences. Her work delves into the depths of human existence, exploring the boundaries of desperation, fear, desire, and the enigmatic realm of the subconscious, all within the context of seemingly senseless and irrational circumstances. “In my artworks, I aim to challenge viewers by presenting them with the unsettling realities of contemporary society, the process of aging, and other thought-provoking themes.” she elaborates.

Kim showcases the captivating series “ Locations of God_Hordes of People” at Kiaf, employing the mesmerizing radiance reminiscent of mother-of-pearl. A myriad of otherworldly creatures and ethereal beings emerge from the radiant glow of iridescent mother-of-pearl, unveiling their haunting visages. Kim characterizes this series as a captivating blend of vibrant and mesmerizing realms, showcasing complex and enigmatic human experiences through the luminosity and imagery reminiscent of mother-of-pearl.

“On their way down” is a piece of artwork depicted on traditional Korean paper, inspired by the Geumgangsan Mountains, which also appear in the paintings of the Mongyu-dowondo. However, instead of mountains, meticulously drawn human scalps using Eastern painting materials occupy their place. The artist, Kim, refers to this technique as ‘Che-mo Sansu’. Kim started portraying individuals with white hair a decade ago, dedicating significant attention to this subject since 2023. She expresses, “Within Korean society, the presence of women diminishes over time, and my intention was to highlight the profound sense of isolation and seclusion that accompanies this experience.”

Kim confidently declares, “I possess the expertise to craft compelling stories and bring them to life using my technical prowess.” Nevertheless, she concedes, “Pursuing a career in the arts is undeniably filled with uncertainty. There have been occasions when I have strongly desired a sense of consistency. By diligently persevering through this uncertainty, I have witnessed numerous improvements and derive immense satisfaction from beholding the finished paintings that required significant time and effort. After dedicating 28 years to the world of painting, it’s astonishing how quickly time has flown by. At this moment, my heart is brimming with a multitude of emotions.”

Kim strives to express ‘sublimity’ in her artwork. She ponders the art of living and envisions her future artistic endeavors, possibly delving into more abstract realms. She concludes, “Nevertheless, painting is a medium that is meant to be experienced rather than explained. Please enjoy my paintings comfortably, as if participating in a festival. I have sincerely painted for you. Thank you for discovering my work.”

Eunjin Kim, Locations of God_Hordes of People 5, Acrylic, mother of pearl, wood panel, 118 × 157 × 10 cm, 2022