September 3, 2021 - May 9, 2022

Philadelphia artist Hee Sook Kim grew up in South Korea and immigrated to the United States when she was in her twenties. By experiencing two vastly different cultures, her artwork continues to be influenced by Korean historical landscape paintings and popular culture. The first layers of her work reflect traditional Korean painting styles and the top, bejeweled layer is a means to view this history through a “feminine veil.” Hee Sook Kim describes her work as “a hybridity that presents both cultures through the eyes of my own particular feminist perspective.”  

Her paintings are inspired by nature and its healing powers, something that many can relate to during the ongoing pandemic. She said that “since last fall, I have worked hard to pull myself out of the ongoing stresses of being confined…cold weather in the winter season made me crave for colorful flowers and plants…the colors lifted my spirit and inspired playfulness opening my imagination.” For Hee Sook Kim, using a Korean-based folk art style and bright colors combined with elements from everyday life is her wish “for everlasting healthy lives for all.” 

 

Everlasting Playground represents the need to “play like free-spirited kids with friends and animals” and that “nature is our steady hope no matter what.” 

Visit heesookkim.com