Daegu’s Gallery Palzo is hosting You, A Flower Too: Ramyeon Report, the latest photographic and installation-based exhibition by South Korean artist Hwang Inmo. In this unique series, Hwang explores Ramyeon noodles not as mere sustenance but as objects of beauty and individuality, inviting viewers to reconsider the ordinary through an extraordinary lens.

The exhibition builds upon the foundation laid by Hwang’s earlier work, Meal: Ramyeon Report. While the first report reflected a deeply personal and emotional journey tied to the artist’s struggles, You, A Flower Too shifts to a more objective perspective. This second chapter focuses on the visual and structural qualities of Ramyeon noodles, presenting them as unique entities despite their status as mass-produced, everyday items.

Hwang’s work challenges the perception of sameness. Each noodle, though seemingly identical at first glance, reveals distinct forms upon closer inspection. Through photography and installation, he documents these subtle differences, transforming Ramyeon into a medium for artistic expression and philosophical reflection. This approach not only highlights the individuality of each noodle but also mirrors broader themes of identity and connection.

The title, You, A Flower Too, draws inspiration from Na Tae-joo’s poetry, particularly the idea that beauty and love emerge through close and prolonged observation. Hwang’s artistic statement echoes this sentiment, describing how his relationship with Ramyeon evolved during a period of personal isolation. Initially drawn to Ramyeon out of necessity, he began to notice its diverse shapes and forms, eventually giving names to each one he photographed. This act of naming transformed the noodles into meaningful and special entities, much like how a person’s identity solidifies through recognition.

Hwang’s practice intertwines the mundane with the poetic. By presenting Ramyeon noodles in a new light, he asks viewers to find beauty in overlooked aspects of their daily lives. The exhibition offers more than just a visual experience; it encourages introspection about how we perceive and assign value to the things around us.

The installation’s use of photography as a medium adds another layer of depth. Instead of simply capturing reality, Hwang interprets and reimagines his subject through the lens of his camera. His images invite viewers to contemplate the intersection of form, function, and aesthetics, turning the commonplace into a rich subject for artistic exploration.

Through this work, Hwang not only reflects on his journey but also touches on universal themes of individuality, connection, and the significance of small details. You, A Flower Too underscores the idea that even in the most ordinary objects, there exists a world of complexity and beauty waiting to be discovered.

By naming and framing Ramyeon in this manner, Hwang elevates it beyond its utilitarian purpose, crafting a body of work that is as much about human connection as it is about art. His exhibition serves as a poignant reminder to slow down, observe closely, and appreciate the often-overlooked facets of our lives.

Sayart / Nao Yim, yimnao@naver.com