Kim Minkyoung

Gallery Imago is holding a solo exhibition by artist Kim Min-kyoung, titled Unveiled Layers: Cropped and Cultivated, from December 5 to 26. The exhibition revolves around the concept of “crop.” Just as when editing a photograph, we choose which parts to cut out, we also selectively reveal or conceal parts of ourselves in daily life. Kim Min-kyoung metaphorically explores what we intentionally select or exclude in our lives, and the hidden truths that emerge from these processes.

위장된 자아 (Camouflaged selves- Unveild layers), 38 x 44 cm, C-print, thread, fabric, 2024

The works feature emotionless faces with neutral expressions, intricately depicted hair textures, and bold colors and structures. These elements visually express the layered meanings and contradictions of the self. The artist symbolically portrays the conflict that modern individuals experience between social roles and personal identity, and the repetitive cycle of suppression and expression. Kim Min-kyoung’s works offer an opportunity for viewers to reflect on their inner selves. The actions emphasized in the exhibition’s title, “Cropped and Cultivated,” metaphorically remind us of how we selectively reveal and conceal parts of ourselves, encouraging reflection on the ‘true self’ found in this process.

위장된 자아 Camouflaged selves (Crochet Drawing), 31 x 22 cm, C-print, fabric, yarn, frame, 2024

“The word ‘crop’ kept echoing in my mind. At first, I thought it was merely a technical act of cutting out parts of an image to leave only the selected portion. But gradually, I began to see the deeper meaning behind it. To cut, to sever. This process seemed to resemble the ‘fragmenting of the self’ that we experience every day. In our daily lives, we constantly adjust ourselves, shaping and refining ourselves to meet the expectations of others, revealing certain parts and concealing others as needed. The selective self we create, the fragments and layers, conceal the true self that this exhibition seeks to explore.”

“I hope that through these works, viewers will project themselves and reflect on the ‘unseen layers’ that exist within their own inner world, embarking on a journey to discover their true self. This exhibition is not just a visual display, but a moment to face the self formed through social relationships. I hope that through this exhibition, both the artist and the viewers can approach their deeper selves and find a small opportunity to become closer to their true essence.”

– From the artist’s note by Kim Min-kyoung.

Gallery Imazoo
Seoul, Gangnam-gu, Teheran-ro 20-gil,12, B1
+82 02 557 1950

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