Eunju Kim’s solo exhibition, Try To Draw, will be held at Mac Gallery from December 4 to December 21, 2024. This exhibition explores Kim’s 30-year journey of artistic and spiritual expression, where the simplicity of “line” (seon, 線) intertwines with the meditative depth of “zen” (seon, 禪). Through her meticulous pencil strokes, Kim invites viewers to engage with the profound act of creation itself, transcending traditional notions of art.
The title Try To Draw encapsulates the essence of Kim’s work. Each piece is the result of countless pencil strokes layered over time, transforming a blank canvas into a vibrant testament to life’s energy and rhythm. Her works often depict waves, vases, and flowers, yet these forms are not the focal point. For Kim, the act of drawing supersedes representation, becoming a meditative practice that fosters a sense of unity between the artist, the act, and the viewer.
Kim’s practice began over three decades ago as a simple passion for drawing. Over time, it has evolved into a disciplined exploration of the intersection between art and mindfulness. Her process mirrors the principles of meditation: achieving stillness amidst external distractions, remaining anchored in one’s essence, and experiencing the joy of being fully present. These qualities imbue her work with a quiet but powerful resonance, drawing viewers into an intimate dialogue with their own emotions and memories.
At the heart of Kim’s work lies the concept of muneommusang (無念無想), a state of thoughtless awareness. By immersing herself in the repetitive act of drawing, she transcends ego and thought, finding harmony in the simplicity of each stroke. The resulting pieces exude a timeless beauty, blending minimalism with profound emotional depth. Through her works, Kim invites viewers to explore the tension between permanence and transience, structure and fluidity.
Curator Jeongwon Kim of Mac Gallery describes the exhibition as “an exploration of the interplay between life’s essence and the act of creation. Eunju Kim’s works guide viewers beyond the surface, allowing them to experience the transformative power of simplicity and presence.”
This exhibition also celebrates Kim’s technical mastery. Her layered pencil lines and delicate compositions challenge traditional boundaries, blending the precision of technique with the fluidity of inspiration. Each piece becomes a portal, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the meditative rhythm of her artistic process.
As the year draws to a close, Try To Draw offers visitors a moment of reflection and serenity. Mac Gallery invites art enthusiasts and newcomers alike to experience Eunju Kim’s profound exploration of line, space, and presence. This exhibition is not just an artistic showcase but a contemplative journey that resonates with the essence of life itself.
Sayart / Maria Kim, sayart2022@gmail.com
