At the esteemed Stephen Friedman Gallery, an exhibition of remarkable depth and emotional resonance unfolds before the viewer’s eyes. Yooyun Yang’s solo exhibition, “Passing Time,” invites us on an introspective journey that navigates the fluid boundaries between memory, temporality, and human experience. Through her captivating artworks, Yang masterfully captures the ephemeral nature of time, creating a profound exploration of the human condition. With her unique artistic language and evocative imagery, Yang establishes herself as a visionary artist, leaving an indelible mark on the contemporary art world.
Silent, 2023 Acrylic on handmade Korean paper on panel 130.3 x 80.4cm
In “Passing Time,” Yang skillfully employs a range of mediums, including painting, sculpture, and installation, to convey the transient and intangible nature of time. Her artworks evoke a sense of nostalgia and contemplation, enveloping viewers in an ethereal atmosphere. The interplay of light and shadow, the delicate use of texture, and the evocative color palette collectively create a visual language that transcends the confines of the present moment. Through her art, Yang compels us to reflect upon the fleeting nature of our existence, the relentless passage of time, and the impact it has on our perceptions and memories.
Cut, 2022 Acrylic on handmade Korean paper on panel 45.6 x 53cm
One of the most striking aspects of Yang’s exhibition is her ability to weave temporal layers within her compositions. Each artwork unfolds like a story, inviting the viewer to unravel its narrative threads. Time, as a recurring motif, is represented through subtle visual cues and symbolic elements. Yang adeptly blurs the boundaries between past and present, inviting viewers to contemplate the interconnectedness of moments and the impermanence of experience. The layered nature of her works encourages us to reflect on the ever-shifting nature of our own memories and how they shape our understanding of the world.
Yooyun Yang Translucent 2, 2022 Acrylic on handmade Korean paper on panel 52.9 x 45 cm
Yang’s artworks are laden with metaphorical narratives, further enriching the viewer’s experience. She skillfully combines objects, landscapes, and figures to create dreamlike tableaus that spark the imagination. Her compositions possess a poetic quality, inviting us to delve into the depths of our own subconscious. Through the juxtaposition of disparate elements, Yang challenges traditional notions of time and space, allowing us to traverse the boundaries of our perceived reality. Each artwork becomes a vessel for contemplation, evoking a multitude of emotions and thoughts as we explore the intricate symbolism embedded within.
Translucent 1, 2022-2023 Acrylic on handmade Korean paper 209 x 151.5cm
The interplay of light and shadow in Yang’s works adds an ethereal quality to her compositions. Light, with its evanescent nature, becomes a metaphor for the passage of time, while shadow symbolizes the mysteries and hidden depths within our lives. Yang expertly captures the play of light as it dances across surfaces, casting intricate patterns and transforming ordinary objects into ethereal spectacles. This interplay serves as a reminder that light and shadow are inseparable, just as joy and sorrow coexist within the human experience. Through her nuanced use of light and shadow, Yang draws attention to the ephemeral beauty that lies in the interstitial spaces of our lives.
Yooyun Yang Passing Time, Exhibition view, Stephen Friedman gallery, London
Yang’s artworks elicit a profound emotional response from the viewer, transporting us to a realm of contemplation and introspection. Her ability to capture the essence of human emotion is truly remarkable. Whether through her delicate brushstrokes, sculptural forms, or immersive installations, Yang imbues her works with a sense of vulnerability and empathy. Each piece becomes a portal into the complexities of the human condition, inviting us to explore our own emotions and reflect on the universal experiences that bind us together.
