Jeongsu Woo
Artwork’s Title: Tit for Tat
Materials Used: Acrylic, ink on canvas
Studio Based: Seoul, Korea
Can you tell us about the process of making your work?
Reorganizing the images onto canvas is one of the key processes in making my work. In my painting, these images function as visual references, indicating the gap between rich and poor that results from capitalism. They also reflect the anxiety and compulsion surrounding the future that the present generation lives with.
How would you define your work in a few words (ideally in 3 words)?
Observing, thinking, drawing.
Would you use another three different words to describe the ‘Tit for Tat‘ painting?
Martial Arts for Self Defense, Capitalism, Pattern.
How did you come up with this painting idea? Is there any story behind this painting?
I learned that ‘tit for tat’ is also a term used as a strategy in economics and mathematics. This strategy is composed of four main tenets—being gentle, retaliation, forgiveness, and being clear. These four simple rules intrigued me as a response to a complex society. I found it particularly interesting that ‘being gentle’ comes first, even though the main goal of this strategy is one’s survival.
I found the illustration of the two men from a martial arts book and was intrigued by how it depicts the two figures—battling against each other with their suits on. The two figures become the main subjects of the Tit for Tat series (2019). Evoking the images of the way we form relationships with people, they reflect our society at large. Sometimes, doing a favor for someone with a lack of understanding can hurt their feelings, or at worst, it could be considered an act of violence towards that person. Yesterday’s victim can become today’s perpetrator.
Is there any particular message that you wish your viewers can take from this painting?
We are all from different walks of life. The environments we have lived in, our attitudes and views are all different. I want to let viewers interpret my painting in their own ways. I hope they can find joy in the delightful brush strokes.
What colour is used the most in this painting?
French Blue mixed with white and gray.
What would be the best way to exhibit your work?
I think about the venue that the exhibition would take place in and consider whether that space and my work will complement one another. The flow of the display and the tempo at which audiences interact with it are also important.
Can you mention any artists you, lately or generally, take inspiration from?
I spend part of my day collecting the references for my painting. Most of the inspiration comes from that process and observing daily life. In terms of visual perspective, I don’t really take inspiration from other artists, but I do learn a lot from the approaches they take to their work.
How do you know when this painting was finished?
When it reached the point where the color, texture, and composition were all balanced.
What about the place where you work? What’s your studio space look like?
My studio is a renovated space which was originally a storage room for a long time. It’s not that spacious, but it has a high ceiling and a cute cat that make me feel at home.
Which exhibition did you visit last?
Peles Empire: Even Here, I Exist at Barakat Contemporary in Seoul, Korea.
Which are your plans for the near future?
There are several group exhibitions in the near future and I have a solo exhibition at DOOSAN Gallery Seoul in November.
*Jeongsu Woo (b.1986) lives and works in Seoul. He received his MFA from Korea National University of Arts in 2015.
Additional Paintings
©All images are courtesy of the artist and DOOSAN Gallery New York. Photo by Jiwon Choi