Gana Art Hannam will present "9", a solo exhibition by Los Angeles-based Korean artist So Youn Lee (b. 1984), from January 17 to February 18, 2025. Inspired by "The Hermit", the ninth card in traditional tarot decks, the exhibition delves into themes of solitude and self-reflection, offering a thought-provoking exploration of modern existential experiences. Featuring 27 new works across a variety of media, the show continues Lee’s distinctive journey of storytelling through whimsical yet deeply resonant visual art.

After moving to the United States in 2008 following her studies in animation in Korea, Lee has established herself as a global artist. She has participated in numerous solo and group exhibitions in cities such as London, New York, Amsterdam, and Hong Kong, and collaborated with international brands like Lancôme and ALDO. Her work is celebrated for its unique blend of playful aesthetics and profound narratives, reflecting her own experiences as a foreigner navigating life in a new cultural context.

The exhibition centers on the symbolic imagery of "The Hermit" card—a solitary figure holding a lantern that represents inner light and wisdom. Lee’s characters, including a lone dinosaur on a desolate planet, a star wandering an alien world, and a mushroom venturing beyond its forest, embody states of isolation. However, they are not confined by despair. Instead, they are depicted as explorers of new worlds, finding meaning and potential in their solitude.

Through these narratives, Lee invites the audience to imagine the possibilities that unfold after isolation. The dinosaur might forge a new order in its destroyed world; the star could discover its brilliance through loneliness; and the mushroom, venturing beyond its ecosystem, might create a new life. These open-ended stories allow viewers to engage with the artworks on a personal level, interpreting the characters' futures in ways that resonate with their own experiences. The oversized eyes of her characters, rather than conveying fear or despair, exude curiosity and quiet resolve, reflecting the optimism of finding light in unexpected places.

Lee describes her artistic philosophy as a way to expand everyday perceptions and encourage deeper connections between the individual and the spiritual. “I believe art helps people experience life more profoundly, bridging their inner world with the broader universe,” she notes. Her works in "9" offer a sense of hope within the emotional landscapes of isolation, challenging the audience to see solitude as an opportunity for growth and imagination.

The exhibition also underscores universal emotions that modern individuals face—loneliness, curiosity, and the search for meaning—through a warm and fantastical lens. It serves as a reminder of the depth of human experience, suggesting that even in solitude, there lies an inherent potential for self-discovery and connection.

An opening reception with the artist will take place on Thursday, January 23, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at Gana Art Hannam. This unique exhibition, blending enchanting visuals with profound themes, is poised to captivate both art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Sayart / Jason Yim, yimjongho1969@gmail.com