Images of Memory

My paintings are a visualization of memories and a medium for communication.

Memories compose specific images, and it is through these images that memories are expressed. Based on what is within the boundary of perceptions and experiences (memories), certain intentions are tried out, emotions are expressed, and subjects, materials, and color tones are chosen, creating a certain image. Ultimately, the images I portray are the recollections and stories of my life. I unfold the stories of my life through my work. However, those who view my paintings would draw out their own stories and memories from them. My memories connect with the memories of others, and within that relationship, a universal image of humanity is portrayed. My life is ultimately composed in relation to other people, so it can be said that my work delivers the images of universal human experience. Therefore, viewing my work is a silent inward journey into myself and simultaneously a journey into the inner realm of the viewers. It is a process of self-reflection and discovery. In the course of trying to discover 'myself,' we become aware of the relationships with others, bringing about a sense of communication. My work is a medium for that communication. Communication is not merely accomplished through the language of the present. What mediates the past and the present, and connects myself (me) to others (you) are the images of memory which I have expressed. The moon-jar depicted in my painting is not just a simple vessel. I chose the image of the moon-jar as a medium of communication.

Have you ever quietly stood upon a moon-jar?

It speaks little yet holds much inside. It appears irresistibly simple, yet intensely sophisticated and refined. Gazing at this object in silence, it has already entered and become a part of myself. It tells me how I am supposed to live and what is the right way to live. People know me as the artist who paints the moon-jar. But I am not simply painting the moon-jar, I am telling you my own story – my aspiration to live like the moon-jar. Within it, I have unraveled my life's stories and simultaneously captured the essence of universal humanity. My series Karma's focal meaning lies in the drawing of the lines. The lines are not realistic representations of the cracks and crazing on the surface of porcelain. They are the paths upon our life's journey. Those lines I depict continue yet split, they meet again at some point, and then again separate; we are alike yet arguably different, and we can be unified into one despite these differences. Constraints, happiness, sorrow, laughter and tears are all within the territory of fate and destiny that transcends our will. Ultimately a certain energy envelops and encompasses all of these mortal confinements.

The unadorned shape and simple color tones of the moon-jar are akin to ‘cheuk-eun-ji-shim,' a traditional reference meaning the natural sympathy or compassion that comes from the bottom of one's heart. Do we not inherently possess a kind heart?

In this way, the moon-jar refers to the images of my life recollections and simultaneously contains a universal narration of human life. This is my moon-jar. As I imbued it with my personal memories, it became not just a mere ceramic but an object witholding our shared memories. The various lines and traces are codes that transcend time and space, and we decipher the code by exploring and tracing back our memories. As you view my work, recall a memory and immerse yourself in it. Within it lies the presence of a kind human being. I hope you embark on a journey to find life's stories within it. There, in that space, we will meet. Though I painted the stories of my life, ultimately, they are the stories of us all.