Johana, In Seo, Kim (born in 2000), a native of South Korea who has also lived in the United States and Cambodia, intricately weaves a compelling artistic narrative that eloquently reflects her unique cultural heritage. She received a BFA in Painting in May 2024 at the Maryland Institute College of Art.
My recent work has undergone a notable transition towards oil painting, marking a departure from my previous projects. I am currently engaged in the creation of portraits that, while reflecting the line-based techniques characteristic of my earlier work, now explore a more intricate painting approach. This series includes two self-portraits and two portraits of my partner. Distinct from my past monochromatic works, these portraits are unified by a single color palette, utilizing varying hues to render the figures. The thematic focus of this series is digestion, an exploration of the act of eating. The concept originated from the imaginative notion of consuming the flesh and hair of a loved one, serving as a metaphor for remembrance and mourning. Although the subject matter may initially appear grotesque or unsettling, my intention is to emphasize the act of consuming and digesting a person, thereby capturing the essence of the individuals who are the focal point of my personal gaze. The colors and expressions in these portraits are intentionally serene and beautiful; however, upon closer examination, the underlying gestures and intentions may reveal a starkly contrasting interpretation.