Sang Woo Kim’s exhibition “The Seer, The Seen” explores race and identity through self-portraits and pigment transfer works. It challenges societal perceptions and reclaims his image as a form of resistance against racism and commodification, open until February 1, 2025, in London.
Sang Woo Kim’s solo exhibition, “The Seer, The Seen,” marks his debut in London, showcasing at Herald St’s locations. The artist tackles themes of race, identity, and individuality through self-portraits and pigment transfer works, exploring the complexities of visibility. Kim’s dual upbringing in South Korea and the UK informs his art, where the gaze becomes an act of defiance against racism and consumerism. By reclaiming his image, Kim transforms it from a point of exploitation into a narrative of resistance, revealing a nuanced self-conception. The exhibition challenges the audience to reflect on their perceptions while navigating the blurred lines of authenticity in the social media age. Viewers are invited to consider how individual identities intersect with broader societal contexts. The exhibition is open until February 1, 2025, at Herald St and Museum St in London.
“The Seer, The Seen” embodies Sang Woo Kim’s journey through the intersections of race and identity influenced by his experiences as a South Korean artist living in the UK. The exhibition is characterised by a profound engagement with the act of seeing and being seen, positioning the artist’s self-portraits in dialogue with societal expectations and racial stereotypes. Kim’s prior career in modelling lends an additional layer of complexity, as he navigates the ownership and representation of his image amidst a culture that often commodifies identity.
Through compelling self-portraits and innovative pigment transfer works, Sang Woo Kim’s exhibition, “The Seer, The Seen,” invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of identity and representation. It serves as a powerful commentary on the tensions between individuality and societal perception, encouraging a deeper understanding of the artist’s personal narrative in a global context. The works challenge viewers to consider their roles in the representation of race and identity.
Original Source: hypebeast.com