Yujin Nam’s experiences across cultures have shifted her focus away from emphasizing differences, and towards the depiction of shared sensibilities that transcend cultural boundaries. The intersecting gazes and relationships between her figures explore the implicit and nuanced stages of communication that accompany social interactions, evoking universal commonalities and coming together to flesh out an atmosphere epitomized by ambient pulses of solidarity.

Inspired by the human forms and abstract landscapes of artists such as Hilma af Klimt, Yujin employs acrylic and acrylic binders to create a partially dried effect that mirrors the physical, spiritual, and mysterious impression of water that is somehow fixed in place. Immersed in such a context, Yujin’s subjects appear unreadable with identities that are distinctly fluid, flexible, and impossible to conclusively define. Indeed, it is difficult to discern the orientations and emotional countenances of her ever-changing forms. As social creatures, they adapt themselves to interactional contexts, revealing only aspects of their true selves to suit the mood. For Yujin, these particular disclosures are similar to fragments, manifesting as shapes with an undulating and eternally malleable core. Influenced by personal encounters, these incomplete forms and their kaleidoscope of imperfections intermingle as if to represent the wholeness of human existence.

If we insist on perceiving ourselves as material beings, Yujin wonders whether or not we can ever fully grasp the thoughts of another while sharing the same space and time. In works such as “Tea Time on Edge,” she conjures up a strange sense of unease and restlessness that is often found lingering within the fabric of everyday scenes. Even during seemingly tranquil moments like tea time, anxieties and the pressing need to reaffirm one’s social position in the world continues to disturb the landscape. In this regard, Yujin hopes that her paintings encourage others to reflect upon their own sense of self, as well as the unsettling sensations that subtly permeate, resonate, and isolate individuals in modern times.

Mandatorily Assimilated (2023). Acrylic, Ink, Medium, and Oil on Canvas. 44 x 58cm.

Colliding Gaze (2023). Acrylic, Ink, and Medium on Canvas. 44.5 x 53.5cm.

In Atelier (2023). Acrylic, Ink, and Medium on Canvas. 80 x 100cm.

Assimilated (2023). Acrylic, Ink, and Medium on Paper. 22 x 29.5cm.

Reciprocal State of Restlessness (2023). Acrylic, Ink, and Medium on Canvas. 139 x 131cm.

Party with Anxiety (2023). Acrylic, Ink, Medium, and Oil on Canvas. 30.5 x 41.7cm.

They Can't Hide Their Uncertainty (2019). Oil and Charcoal on Canvas. 145 x 194.5 cm.

They Can't Hide Their Uncertainty (2023). Acrylic, Ink, Medium, and Oil on Paper. 20 x 29cm.

Reciprocal Stability (2023). Acrylic, Ink, Medium, and Oil Canvas. 38.5 x 34cm.

They Can't Hide Their Uncertainty 2 (2023). Acrylic, Ink, and Medium on Canvas. 194.5 x 137cm.

Tea Time on Edge (2019). Oil and Charcoal on Canvas. 194 x 137cm.

In Kitchen (2023). Acrylic, Ink, and Medium on Canvas. 80 x 100cm.

Reciprocal Stability 2 (2023). Acrylic, Ink, and Medium on Canvas. 29 x 44cm.