There is no end: Hyeonkyeong You
Past exhibition
Press release
Enseoul is delighted to announce a second solo exhibition of Hyeonkyeong You (b. 1985 KR), There is no end, which delves into the boundless realms of memory and contemplation. Through a collection of her new works, You invites viewers to embark on a journey beyond the confines of time and space, challenging conventional notions of endings and beginnings. You describes "memory knows no end; it exists as long as I remember".
The title There is no end carries a dual meaning, reflecting the artist's profound insights into memory and existence. The first meaning suggests that as long as memories persist, there is no true end to time or moments. The past remains eternal in our recollections, a sentiment that You seeks to capture in her work. The second meaning speaks to the idea that there is no ultimate downfall of existence. Rather, what appears to be an end is always connected to a new beginning, emphasising the continuity and enduring nature of being. "In the depths of desolation, I discovered the spark of renewal." recalls You. This realisation is a central theme in the exhibition, where each piece tells a story of the juxtaposition of grandeur and desolation.
The exhibition's main piece, There is no end, symbolises the end of a prosperous era, representing both the house and people lived there have seen better days. You depicts once the majestic home that has fallen into disrepair, highlighting the stark contrast between the past glory and the current desolation. This portrayal is especially poignant, as only those who have experienced great splendor can truly fall into ruin.
The dramatic decline from opulence to desolation is a powerful metaphor for the artist's inner turmoil and decay. It reflects the artist's own sense of desolation and decline, yet also carries a message of resilience and renewal. The darkness and loneliness of these depictions are not just ends in themselves, but rather, they serve as a means to acknowledge and ultimately transcend the shadows, paving the way for a new beginning.
Throughout her career, You has been drawn to the motif of home as it reveals the state of mind, reflecting own psychological and emotional landscapes. The artist believes that imageries of home serve as mirrors to our inner worlds telling a story of who we are, making it a powerful subject for artistic exploration.
You's personal introspection is expressed through her emotive brushwork and powerfully evocative imageries in the exhibited works.You captures the essence of her inner desolation and the transformative journey towards new beginnings, unveiling the profound truth – there is no end but an eternal continuum.
The title There is no end carries a dual meaning, reflecting the artist's profound insights into memory and existence. The first meaning suggests that as long as memories persist, there is no true end to time or moments. The past remains eternal in our recollections, a sentiment that You seeks to capture in her work. The second meaning speaks to the idea that there is no ultimate downfall of existence. Rather, what appears to be an end is always connected to a new beginning, emphasising the continuity and enduring nature of being. "In the depths of desolation, I discovered the spark of renewal." recalls You. This realisation is a central theme in the exhibition, where each piece tells a story of the juxtaposition of grandeur and desolation.
The exhibition's main piece, There is no end, symbolises the end of a prosperous era, representing both the house and people lived there have seen better days. You depicts once the majestic home that has fallen into disrepair, highlighting the stark contrast between the past glory and the current desolation. This portrayal is especially poignant, as only those who have experienced great splendor can truly fall into ruin.
The dramatic decline from opulence to desolation is a powerful metaphor for the artist's inner turmoil and decay. It reflects the artist's own sense of desolation and decline, yet also carries a message of resilience and renewal. The darkness and loneliness of these depictions are not just ends in themselves, but rather, they serve as a means to acknowledge and ultimately transcend the shadows, paving the way for a new beginning.
Throughout her career, You has been drawn to the motif of home as it reveals the state of mind, reflecting own psychological and emotional landscapes. The artist believes that imageries of home serve as mirrors to our inner worlds telling a story of who we are, making it a powerful subject for artistic exploration.
You's personal introspection is expressed through her emotive brushwork and powerfully evocative imageries in the exhibited works.You captures the essence of her inner desolation and the transformative journey towards new beginnings, unveiling the profound truth – there is no end but an eternal continuum.
Installation Views
