Zadie Xa's Solo Exhibition at Space K Seoul Creates an Enchanting Blend of Cultures and Myths

″Tricksters, Mongrels, Beasts″ (2023) by Zadie Xa [SPACE K SEOUL]

In a captivating blend of classic horror anthology TV series "Korean Ghost Stories" (1977-89) and Western mythological fantasy films, 40-year-old Korean-Canadian artist Zadie Xa presents her mesmerizing solo exhibition titled "Nine-tailed Tales: Trickster, Mongrel, Beast" at Space K Seoul in Magok-dong, Gangseo District, western Seoul.

Stepping into the exhibition, visitors are greeted by an evocative sculpture of an elderly woman astride a haetae, a mythical creature originating from East Asia, boasting a leonine body and profound wisdom. Inspired by the head puppet found among the vibrant wooden puppets adorning sangyeo, the traditional funeral bier of ancient Korea, the artist reimagines the puppet as Mago Halmi, also known as Grandmother Mago, an ancient Korean goddess.

The exhibition deftly weaves together the eerie allure of "Korean Ghost Stories" with the fantastical realm of Western mythological fantasies, creating an ethereal and mysterious atmosphere that captivates the imagination.

Zadie Xa's choice to portray Grandmother Mago, a female figure, riding the haetae, which is typically depicted as a male general, adds a powerful and feminist touch to the traditional narrative. This transformation celebrates the strength and significance of feminine divinity in Korean culture and folklore.

Throughout "Nine-tailed Tales: Trickster, Mongrel, Beast," the artist's profound creativity shines through, inviting visitors on a journey that transcends time and culture. With each stroke and intricate detail, Xa masterfully fuses two distinct worlds, forging a seamless tapestry of horror and fantasy that mesmerizes the senses.

Drawing inspiration from the rich heritage of Korean ghost stories and the enchanting allure of Western mythology, Zadie Xa's solo exhibition is a celebration of cultural fusion and artistic prowess. As visitors wander through the exhibition's enchanting halls, they are transported to a realm where ghosts and mythical creatures converge, giving rise to a uniquely captivating experience that leaves a lasting impression.

"Nine-tailed Tales: Trickster, Mongrel, Beast" is not merely an exhibition; it is a realm of artistic enchantment, where ancient tales and modern interpretations intertwine to create a powerful and immersive journey into the heart of myth and imagination.

At Space K Seoul in Magok-dong, a world awaits, where the spirits of Korean folklore dance alongside the mythical beasts of Western fantasies, courtesy of Zadie Xa's boundless creativity and artistic vision.

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