Reflection of the face

Abstract

[From Introduction] The portrait is one of the oldest genres in history. It is the “form” of a person, and an expression of their inner spirituality. It was developed by artists under the influence of the social environment, adapting cultural, social, political, and spiritual norms of the time period. As the times changed, so too did the artists, and how they represented through their paintings the local customs. In both the East and West beginning in the Renaissance period, the portrait was for nobles or people of power. Portraits were mostly fancy and had many decorative elements. Korean portraits, however, were different than those from other countries. There the emphasis was on the inner side of human beings, and depicted them realistically with hair, moles and scars, but with restrained lines and in a static way. While I painted my portraits, I realized that my work reflected the two cultures, realistically and expressionistically. While completing my BFA in painting, I decided to pursue a career as a professional artist and teacher. I felt that I could communicate with and help people who suffered depression as I did before entering the program. I wanted to interact with these people, especially those who were in despair. Painting is a natural connection between the artist, the model and the audience. Through my own experience, I came to believe that art has the power to change people's lives.