Normal Life

'Normal Life' continues artist Heesoo Kim’s considered study of human nature. The characters in his work are distinguished by impassive faces and a statuesque presence, but with an emotive resonance that speaks to their hidden inner worlds. Kim is motivated to create a neutral space onto which others can project their private thoughts or anxieties, as he is aware that observations of modern life equate to observations of rapid societal change and its accompanying uncertainties, and wishes to provide audiences with a space of understanding and serenity.

The neutrality of his characters belies the turmoil of their inner worlds. Whereas in previous work Kim displayed a keen awareness of his surroundings and those around him, recently his focus has shifted towards exploring himself, with his curiosity directed inwards not outwards.

Kim’s distinctive colour palette lends subtle narratives to his work; metallic bronze and brown tones associate some of his characters with statues rather than people, whereas stark additions of colour enliven scenes by emphasising their human qualities, as seen in the central female figure of 'Untitled (Five Figures II)'.