Kim Sung Kook’s solo exhibition, ‘RETRONISM’, is held at Gallery LVS in Sinsa-dong, Seoul, from September 2nd to September 23rd, 2024. This exhibition reflects on his 15-year artistic journey, combining past and present to delve into the theme of "relationships." The title ‘RETRONISM’ originates from the word ‘Retrospective’ and encompasses the idea of rebirth through repetition.

Kim’s art world is a multi-layered complex built on diverse appropriations. His work draws from mythology, classic paintings, contemporary art, fashion, and celebrities, offering viewers new connections by placing familiar concepts in unexpected contexts. This exhibition revisits his worldview of appropriation, introduced in his 2010 solo show, ‘Pasting the Past’, and seeks to explore the essence of creation through this paradoxical act.

In ‘RETRONISM’, Kim is a time traveler, moving between past works and the real world. His iconic piece ‘Leviathan_Eternal’ expands on the story of unity and system explored in his 2018 work, ‘Leviathan’. This new version depicts women's solidarity as they grow into stronger figures, evolving beyond their student days, symbolized by intricate William Morris patterns in the background.

On the other hand, ‘After Stardust’ conveys the solitude and growth of an outsider. While ‘Stardust’ (2021) created a dreamlike experience set in a British pub, ‘After Stardust’ reflects on the passage of time, leaving only a lone observer behind. This work revisits existential questions about the meaning of space left after significant moments.

Additionally, Kim’s ‘Trees’ series broadens his scope of appropriation. In his 2024 work, inspired by Fra Angelico’s depictions of Eastern objects, he challenges cultural stereotypes, merging Eastern and Western motifs.

Collaborative works by ‘John Cook’, a group comprising Kim and Kim Si-jong, are also showcased. Their innovative blend of photography and oil painting explores the relationship between the finite and the infinite, symbolized by the juxtaposition of Anubis and green tape.

Kim, a Seoul National University graduate, earned his Master’s from the Royal College of Art. His works have been exhibited internationally, and ‘RETRONISM’ marks his fifth solo show, featuring 16 oil paintings and 5 collaborative works.

Sayart / Maria Kim, sayart2022@gmail.com