Kwon Ji An, widely known as singer and artist Solbi, has launched a joint exhibition with artist Yoon Wee Dong titled Endure: Gyeondida at Banditrazos Gallery in Seoul’s Seongbuk District. The exhibition, which opened on Thursday, delves into the concept of resilience, interpreting and spreading hope through the unique perspectives of the two artists. The exhibition will run until January 14, 2024.
The showcase features 44 pieces by Kwon, including her signature Humming Letter and Apple series. In Humming Letter, Kwon captures the essence of natural harmony and emotional release through the hums of nature. The piece reflects her ability to transform the intense emotions derived from her surroundings into art, embodying both serenity and vitality.
Kwon’s Apple series, rooted in her personal experiences with online criticism as a nontraditional artist, serves as a commentary on resilience in the face of adversity. Inspired by this series, Yoon collaborated with Kwon to create a piece that addresses the challenges of facing criticism while seeking peace and inner purification. The partnership highlights a shared theme of embracing vulnerability and transforming it into creative strength.
“I sought to depict the delicate boundary between existence and nonexistence, one color and another, and the tangible versus the abstract,” Kwon explained. She emphasized the importance of appreciating the vibrancy of natural elements such as water, trees, flowers, and wind—living entities that coexist with us and reflect resilience and harmony.
The exhibition, titled the Korean word gyeondida (to endure), resonates deeply with the message of finding strength amidst challenges. It provides visitors with an immersive experience that blends artistic abstraction with personal introspection, inviting them to explore the nuanced interplay of emotions and nature.
Kwon Ji An’s evolution from a singer to a recognized artist has been marked by her ability to channel her struggles into thought-provoking art. Her works, infused with emotional depth and visual poetry, continue to challenge conventional notions of creativity.
The duo’s collaboration underscores the transformative power of art in addressing societal challenges and personal adversity. Visitors are encouraged to engage with the themes of coexistence, resilience, and renewal, making Endure: Gyeondida a must-see exhibition this season.
Sayart / Jason Yim, yimjongho1969@gmail.com
