Discovering Sooja Kim

Sooja Kim is a contemporary South Korean artist I discovered at the recent exhibit at Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). Her videos, which she produces, directs and acts in are internationally well-known.

From the moment I stepped into the room where her video work entitled, “A Needle Woman,” was being presented, I was entranced.

On the opposing two walls were large screens- three on each side -that depict her standing completely still in the middle of a busy street with her back to the camera. Each video shows her presence in a particular part of the world such as Cuba, Nepal, Israel, Yemen, Brazil and Chad.

The viewers only see the back of the artist and the reactions of passersby. The latter's reactions range anywhere from curiosity, bewilderment, mockery, fear, amusement, to simply ignoring her presence. It was interesting to note the varying degree of reactions of people between countries.

I learned that the artist keeps her eyes focused at a central point to maintain balance. She breathes from her stomach so that her shoulders don't move and wills different parts of her body to relax in order to promote circulation. Amazing.

The artist alters the flow of the world around her with stillness. It is a powerful, meditative act. The artist further goes on to say, “Every moment of our daily life is [a]…meditation.”

Simply stunning! My perception is altered radically by the artist's unique vision. My mind is still exploring the depths of this profound, transforming work of art.

Below is a video of her work similar to what I witnessed at LACMA exhibit.

Re: Discovering Sooja Kim

Also, click here to see a brief video of her work, “A Needle Woman.”

Re: Discovering Sooja Kim

How very interesting! Pushing back the boundaries of art and creativity! And bringing the audience into the art. It's fascinating!

The second video is in India!

I liked her explanation of her one-word name as Kimsooja.

Another photo
Photos by Thierry Depagne and Jaeho Chong Bottari Truck - Migrateurs, “Je Reviendrai” Performance in Paris, November 10, 2007 and
Installation at MAC/VAL, Paris, 2008 Commissioned by Musée d'art contemporain du Val-de-Marne, France.

Re: Discovering Sooja Kim

Fascinating.  Thanks for giving Kimsooja's website.  I watched the video without sound but I can imagine if I spoke French the commentary was the same feeling.  I would have gone to see this.  

Re: Discovering Sooja Kim

Good to meet you here Meenakshi and KES,
Thank you so much for adding more info to discover and learn about this amazing artist.  I became a fan after seeing her work at LACMA.  I was thinking about it for days after the visit.  I realize art is highly subjective and each of us interpret and experience it in our own unique way.  I was just moved by her simple and yet transcendent work and wanted to share it.