Yuna Kim — iidrr

The Space Within ___
Yuna Kim Solo Exhibition

September 5th to September 18th, 2024

Opening Reception on September 6th, 2024, 6 - 8PM

New York, 2024 — :iidrr Gallery is pleased to present “The Space Within ___ ,” a solo exhibition by artist Yuna Kim that explores the intricate relationship between space, connection, and the metaphysical dimensions that extend beyond our immediate perception. The exhibition will be on view from September 5th to September 18th, 2024, with the opening on September 6th, 2024, 6 - 8PM.

Yuna Kim’s work explores the transformation of space into place, examining how this metamorphosis responds to feelings of alienation and dissonance in daily life. Her paintings blur the lines between the real and the virtual, inviting viewers into an expansive, open-ended universe where the boundaries of perception are fluid. Through her skillful use of layered, watery paints, Kim creates spaces that are both transparent and opaque, engaging viewers not merely as observers but as participants in an ongoing dialogue between reality and imagination.

“The Space Within ___” presents a series of oil paintings that invite viewers to explore the cosmos on both a personal and universal level, leading to a deeper connection between the self and the vastness of the universe.

One facet of Kim’s work reveals her deep fascination with the cosmos and the origins of space. Large-scale oil paintings dominate the walls, rich with layers of color, blurred edges, and a sense of vastness that invites viewers to contemplate the infinite. These works reflect the initial stages of discovery, where the exploration of space is both a physical and metaphysical journey. Inspired by the act of stargazing, Kim's paintings capture the realization that the seemingly flat, black surface of the night sky conceals an immense, expansive space. One such painting,Star III, was conceived during a night of star observation, aiming to express the depth and infinity hidden within the universe. Through careful layering, the artist conveys dimensions that elude direct observation, offering a glimpse into unseen realms beyond our immediate perception.

Star III, Oil on canvas, 48x60, 2023

The exhibition then shifts focus to the theme of connection, exploring how space influences personal identity and presence. This section features more intimate compositions, with repeated shapes and blurred boundaries, creating a meditative atmosphere that resonates with the viewer’s inner world. Kim's exploration of space often leads her to reflect on the sense of disconnection that can occur when entering unfamiliar environments. In My Room, she visualizes this disconnection during the quiet hours of dawn, capturing the feeling of floating and not fully belonging to the surrounding space. The compact setup of this section encourages deeper reflection and immersion, allowing viewers to discover their own position within the cosmic landscape. The recurring theme of blurred boundaries is further explored in another painting, Dawn, which depicts the transition from night to day, where the horizon blurs and the sky's hues merge, symbolizing the ambiguity of these boundaries.

My Room, Oil on canvas, 30x30, 2023

Dawn, Oil on canvas, 36x36, 2023

Yuna Kim’s work invites viewers to forge their own connection with the cosmos, navigating the fluid boundaries of perception to uncover deeper meanings within. Her paintings are not merely visual experiences but entities with a unique presence, designed to evoke introspection and personal discovery. As a record of her responses to the world, Kim’s art captures serendipitous moments and translates them into fragmented visual experiences, guiding viewers into the cosmic spaces she creates. Through the interplay of color and form, she encourages a journey into these mysterious realms, offering new insights and emotions along the way.