Newtro-mania: Momo Kim
The term ‘retro’, a trend defining our time, is an abbreviation of retrospect, referring to a preference for memories and the past. Much like the madeleine in Proust's novel, small fragments of personal history imbued with individual sentiment are revalued by unique collectors. Momo Kim (b. 1992) records everyday memories as a private collector, unconcerned with public perception. SEOJUNG ART Busan is delighted to announce the works by the artist, running from September 28 to November 3, 2024. This exhibition aims to explore how personal histories can resonate with universal empathy and value.
Today, we are overwhelmed by the constant influx of information and objects, leading to distraction and a constant lack of rest. This is not merely boredom stemming from a scarcity of choices; rather, it is a challenge rooted in cultural fatigue, driven by the constant demands on our attention and time. However, the artist does not get swept away by provocative, large-scale culture. Instead, she embarks on a dreamlike journey of collection, focusing on everyday objects and creating and documenting artifacts that capture the essence of an era. In this way, the ceramics infused with the artist's spirit, vibrant dolls, and elegant orchids transform into meaningful treasures. For Momo Kim, art is about selecting and imbuing the precious fragments of life she wishes to remember, reflecting a genuine expression of kindness in her landscapes.
Momo Kim's work is deeply rooted in everyday life. Her modestly crafted ceramics, a potted plant placed on one side of the canvas, a heartfelt letter, and a lamp that softly illuminates a quiet room all contribute to her artistic narrative. The artist explores flowers as symbols of luck and fortune, incorporating low-cost artificial potted plants from well-known brands. This choice reveals her intent to reflect contemporary consumption patterns and the awareness of our generation, alongside existing images and meanings. These artificial flowers, devoid of a natural life cycle, are imbued with an eternal quality through her hand-painting and iPad drawings. The ceramics, a major theme alongside the potted plants, directly reflect her artistic approach. Despite the concentration and delicately coordinated movements involved in their creation, slight imperfections remain. This serves as a metaphor for the imperfect nature of daily life, providing comfort and reminding the artist of the importance of humility.
This exhibition provides a fresh perspective by presenting works that transcend the boundaries of memory and time, elevating everyday objects beyond their functional roles. The artist transforms commonplace items into materials that reflect personal taste and aesthetic sensibility, engaging with them on a subjective level. Unlike the renowned works collected by museums, this exhibition emphasizes the significance of anonymous art in our lives. Momo Kim’s scenes celebrate the ordinary and are redefining the narrative of intrinsic value.
