In our rapidly growing modern society, the value of our personal lives and leisure has become more precious than ever. The breadwinner who goes to work grows increasingly distant from family, and the endless stream of work messages piling up on our smartphones raises our heart rates. The right to enjoy a restful weekend is often sacrificed in the name of responsibility to the majority. The competitive atmosphere sometimes compels us to constantly compare ourselves with others, making us reflect on our worth through the standards of others. In this fast-paced urban life, having time for ourselves to take a break is becoming more and more valuable.

I, too, find myself immersed in work without weekends. When I step outside for a moment, I see how quickly summer turns into winter and winter into spring. I’ve become accustomed to this rapid pace of change. Amid this busy life, I ride my bike and skateboard to release the pent-up energy I feel, clearing my mind to return to work with a fresh perspective. My works are records based on my personal experiences, memories, and the impressions left on my heart from this routine.

When I see the lights of the city, I naturally think of the people. The character and vitality of the city are shaped by these individuals, and their small movements infuse energy into the streets. From bustling cities filled with towering buildings and cars to brownstones harmoniously nestled among small trees and steps, and to the quiet parks in the evening—these are scenes I encounter in everyday life. The people I’ve met in New York City, the interactions with diverse cultures, and the emotions and personal moments discovered in a changing environment are all captured in this work. Standing in front of a blank canvas, I recall the moments when my mind was cleared and the impressions left in that state. Rhythmic lines and points intermingle with traces revealed in motion, blending rough finishes with elements that appear perfect yet carry a sense of imperfection.

This exhibition delves deeper into the rich everyday life of a bustling city, revealing the echoes of footsteps, neighbors, and connections through the memories the city has left behind. It allows us to momentarily lighten the emotional burdens left by busy days, enriching our lives with moments of leisure and connection. 

-Yoon Hyup

Artist Yoon Hyup continues to reflect on modern life by documenting the impressions arising at the intersection of inner emotions and the external world amidst the rapid changes in contemporary society. The sense of speed felt in the city’s transformations, the condensation and release of energy in fleeting moments, and the natural emotions and imperfections that arise in this process are key elements in understanding his works. He suggests that through his work, we can feel the energy of the dancing city, appreciate the beauty of fleeting moments, and share in human connections.

The minimalist points and lines, along with the carefully chosen colors by the artist, serve as a restrained language to read the energy of the city or society in which he currently exists, through its light, sound, and the movements of people. Through this language, the artist recognizes the space he occupies while also acknowledging himself within that space, documenting the emotions and impressions that arise in those moments.

When closely observing the seemingly perfect round points and lines, one may discover an inherent imperfection that feels deeply human. This visual illusion and the discrepancy from reality evoke an aesthetic difference, encouraging viewers to focus on their own senses. The moment one recognizes this difference, they become aware of their existence before the artwork, able to appreciate their sensory moments within the current space and time. This mirrors the artist's own way of perceiving reality and existence.

The traces projected on the canvas do not perfectly describe the scene at that moment. Between points and between lines, there exist empty spaces, and it is these spaces that transform the dots and lines on the canvas into beautiful light, rhythm, and energy, further beautifying our stories and the spaces of memory and emotion. In a modern society that feels overwhelmingly full, the process of seeking inner freedom and leisure within our lives will create another layer of meaning, providing space in our hearts.

Like a letter from the artist to the audience of 《NEXT EPISODE: COEXIST》, We hope this exhibition offers a delightful journey that enriches lives as you encounter Yoon Hyup's works in this moment amidst the busy flow of life.

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