geoff kim: stereo hangul

July 10 – August 25

“Stereo Hangul” represents a moment to reflect on the current state of Korean identity in the United States. A layered media landscape, contrasted narratives on race, shifting economics and a multi-year pandemic are all colliding into a new era, a new time. In contemplating what it means to be of Korean descent in this country, these works reflect a multitude of personal and familial histories. They aim to represent a feeling of being between two sonic and visual worlds: 한글 (Hangul) and English, Korean and American.

These pieces reflect strength in language, culture and identity made stronger by circumstances of racial prejudice and strife felt by the Korean American as well as the Asian American community at large. In these sculptural collages, the hope is to celebrate the beauty in intersectional identities and embrace the difference found within each unique story and individual. An inherent aspect of collage is that it builds bridges between worlds from the past and new. By building these physical emblems, made from collage and UV paint, the artist celebrates the vibrant colors and symbols of Korean culture. The ultimate aim is to enhance words and ideals that reflect principles of solidarity, togetherness, and hope.