Gache Giantess Series

ARTIST STATEMENT

In 2007 I came across a painting by Hyewon, an 18th century
Korean painter from the Joseon-period. I instantly became enchanted by
the enormous braided mass adorning the Korean woman's delicate head.
Since then I have become obsessed with this wig called "gache" and it
has become an icon in my work.

I read an account of a thirteen-year-old Korean bride whose tragic
demise was caused by her "gache". Her neck broke because of the
cumbersome wig, which can weigh up to 3 to 4 kilograms.

The allure of the "gache" has launched a personal dialogue
regarding our notions of beauty and vanity, our need to adorn our bodies,
and the absurdity of these notions and needs. My work is a blend of
fantasy,enchantment and the ludicrous.

Refuge, Ink on Paper, 10.16 x 15.24 cm, 2010©

Descended, Ink on Paper, 10.16 x 15.24 cm, 2010©

Bound, Ink on Paper, 7.6 x 12.7 cm, 2010©

Gaze, Ink on Paper, 10.16 x 15.24 cm, 2010©

From the netherworld, Ink, Acrylic and Watercolor on Paper, 10.16 x 15.24 cm, 2010©

From existing matter and space, Ink, Acrylic and Watercolor on Paper, 10.16 x 15.24 cm,  2010©

Providence, Acrylic and Pen on Paper, 21.5 x 30 cm, 2010©

Easy breezy, Acrylic and Pen on Paper, 21.5 x 29.5 cm, 2010©