JIHI(BHAK)
JIHI uses images to explore various forms of communication that take place in human relationships. Communication is not simply exchanging information, but exchanging each other’s heart and care. The artist doesn’t work solely with the existing language, but instead, constructs a world in which images and symbols operate on their own, searching what active and sincere communication is.
JIHI graduated with a degree in fine art from Seoul Women’s University in 2010, and then relocated to France to study language. Lips are her signature symbols inspired by her deep frustration in limited communication during her time in France and the regrets left behind by the conversations with others that she wasn’t able to finish. JIHI attempts to communicate with herself in front of the canvas, which leads to self-reflection. This also helps viewers reflect on themselves and move on from their past. JIHI has held several solo exhibitions since 2014 and was recognized as a rising pop artist upon being named one of the Zero Base Artists of Seoul Auction. JIHI’s works are part of the Samsung Bioepis, Korea United Pharm, E-Land Culture Foundation, and Koo House Museum collections.
JIHI, 〈Smile〉, 2022, Oil on canvas, 117 x 91 cm.
JIHI’s paintings unravel various forms of communication in human relations in the form of pop art. The heart-shaped lip motif and three primary colors that make up the majority of her paintings embody an inviting and cheerful atmosphere. Although JIHI’s works originated from her experience of difficulty in communication, they draw attention to the positive connections that people establish through shared conversations. In today’s world where individualism and non-face-to-face contact have become the norm, JIHI’s paintings make us open up to others and realize the value of communication, while demonstrating the value of visual art that functions as a channel of communication.
JIHI uses oil pastels to freely go back and forth between drawing symbolic images such as dots, dotted lines, lines and lips, circles, hearts, and eyes. At a glance, her works resemble pure and innocent doodles by children, but when observed in detail, they look like allegories full of complex and implicit symbols.
JIHI’s works have marvelous energies that convey heavy topics through light and bright images, like Keith Haring’s works. Through such works, JIHI satirizes the reality of today’s harsh world where we see less communication and exchange, while also longing for the establishment of true relationships between individuals.
JIHI presents works that do not simply convey messages on love between men and women; rather, her works speak on hope and address the lack of humanity’s love and interest in one another. Through her unique style that incorporates the use of vivid colors, implicit symbols, and text, her work goes beyond personal experience to deep contemplation on the awareness of real social issues. Furthermore, the fact that her work continues to pursue utopias makes us look forward to how her work will evolve in the future.