Lobde
Artwork’s Title: Agora
Materials Used: Acrylic and spray on wood
Studio Based: Seoul, Korea
Can you tell us about the process of making your work?
There are two ways: hand-drawing images randomly that come to mind. Next, use a laptop to materialize the picture more, and match the colors and materials. Color is the most important thing after the shape of the drawing, so it takes the longest time. Finally, paint with a brush or hand on the appropriate area (canvas, wood or other objects). In this step, the picture is transformed spontaneously. Another method is to just paint right after deciding the color I want to use.
How would you define your work in a few words (ideally in 3 words)?
Prosperity of life.
How did you come up with this new idea the ‘Agora’ painting? Is there any story behind this work?
I wanted to express that people, animals, and plants are in an equal position. And the Agora, which is the center of the city’s movement, art, and soul, and where citizens gather to discuss, was suitable. They are each in their own place within a unified black and white color, but they harmonize into one within a frame.
Do specific artworks have been created by random experiments in your studio or do you always come up with a particular concept or narrative in the very beginning?
It is rare to think of a story first. This is also because I am inspired by the visual stimulus itself that the artwork first gives me. Sometimes when I find great materials and colors, then I make artwork just because I want to use them. While watching a video in the studio, for example, I focus on falcon hunting. And if the scene where people gather and pray in the music video touches my mind, then expresses it in my own way. I want to show the echo that I received in this way.
Is there any particular theme that utterly triggers you to engage your art with?
I am influenced by historical relics and architecture. The root of my work is that ancient people painted pictures for prosperity with magical meanings.
Large or small scale canvases dilemma; are there any kind of standards that drive you to decide which surface length is better fitted for your final painting visualizations?
As long as my studio size accommodates, the bigger the canvas, the better. It’s because I believe that the overwhelming power of painting comes from its scale. Currently working around 100x100cm because of space.
What would be the best way to exhibit your work?
I prefer to show my painting on a rough cement wall or in the middle of Mother Nature. It would be perfect to have ruined building in a long-grown grass forest. Especially, this painting would go well with the Acropolis of Athens, Greece.
Can you mention any artists you, lately or generally, take inspiration from?
Most recently, the brand ‘Storymfg’, which is operated by a couple, is cool. I like the way they express artwork in clothes or lead the brand under the theme of nature. David Heo’s vivid color and Sophie Vallance are also good. Hassan Hajjaj had an exhibition in Seoul, so I found out, but it’s sad that I couldn’t go. And I always grateful to the unnamed ancient artists.
Do you ever wonder if additional work was needed, when an artwork’s making process is finished?
It’s rare because I’m far from perfectionism, but it’s hard when I’m thinking about whether to add more after work. Then I think about it again after I sleep. But still sleepy.
What about the place where you work? What’s your studio space look like?
I am using the studio with a musician friend. There is a living room where we enjoy games and watch videos, and also there is a lot of coke. One room is a music studio, and the other is a painting room. We share inspiring things. I live with my paintings displayed all over the room thanks to my friend. My favorite ceramics and my friend’s albums are on display together.
What do your mum and dad think about your art?
They are asking if I eat well. They generally like my art. My mother is a garden designer, so she also gives me advice on colors or something. Father is not interested in anything except watching baseball games. But I love him.
Which are your plans for the near future?
I’m going to branding my art and opening an exhibition with new paintings. I really want to have an exhibition abroad, so I’m trying hard to spread mine.
Additional Images
All images courtesy of the artist