Leeum Museum of Art is set to host the highly anticipated solo exhibition of Korean-American artist Anicka Yi, titled There Exists Another Evolution, But In This One. This marks Yi's first solo museum exhibition in Asia, featuring a compelling selection of her recent works alongside earlier pieces, showcasing over 30 works created over the past decade.

Yi's work is renowned for its innovative integration of biology, technology, and sensory experiences. Her practice frequently explores the connections between organic and artificial life, employing unconventional materials such as bacteria, fragrances, and living organisms. This exhibition emphasizes her ongoing exploration of these themes, illustrating both her distinctive artistic approach and her recent creative developments.

One notable aspect of Yi's practice is her use of transient materials. For instance, her “tempura-fried flowers” are fried and then preserved with resin, highlighting themes of decay and transformation. Similarly, her new piece "Another You" (2024) delves into the relationship between humans and non-human life forms using genetically engineered bacteria that exhibit fluorescent properties. This work reflects Yi's interest in the connections between ancient marine life and contemporary biological science.

Yi's practice is also characterized by her engagement with interdisciplinary collaborations. Her work frequently involves cooperation with scientists, technologists, and other experts. This approach allows her to push the boundaries of traditional art forms, integrating elements from fields such as microbiology and environmental science.

The exhibition's title, borrowing from Zen Buddhist terminology, hints at Yi’s focus on the meditative and existential aspects of her work. Her recent video piece, Each Branch of Coral Holds Up the Light of the Moon, is part of a larger project exploring the concept of existence beyond biological life. This work uses algorithms and data from her studio to create a 'digital twin' of her artistic practice, probing questions about the persistence of art and legacy through technology.

Yi's “Kelp Pods” and “Radiolaria” series further blur the lines between the organic and the mechanical. The “Radiolaria” series features fluid, organic shapes combined with mechanical components such as lights and fiber optics, while the “Kelp Pods” series includes mechanical elements encased in kelp-like structures, illustrating the artist’s fascination with both natural and artificial forms.

The exhibition is co-curated by Leeum’s Jinah Lee and Peter Illig from UCCA Contemporary Art Center, Beijing, where the exhibition will travel after its run in Seoul. The show not only highlights Yi's unique artistic voice but also her ongoing dialogue with evolving technologies and biological processes.

The exhibition will be on view at the Leeum Museum of Art until December 29, offering visitors a profound encounter with Yi's exploration of the intersection between art, science, and sensory perception.

Sayart / Jason Yim, yimjongho1969@gmail.com