Dear Leader
16′ 6″ x 7′ 10″ x 7′ 10″
Wood, paint, audio, blower, & inflatable
2011
Artist Statement
“Dear Leader” is an exploration of the relationship between ancient Confucian tradition and modern Communist rule in North Korean society. Kim Jung II, known to his people as “dear Leader,” is the Supreme Leader of North Korea. The annual Arirang Festival celebrates Kim Jung II’s almost godlike status, and promotes North Korean political propaganda and communist ideology. This festival involves 100,000 performers and is the largest gymnastic event on the planet.
From the traditional and isolated point of view of rural North Koreans, the values of Confucianism directly support a kind of caste system and rigid traditional hierarchy with the King as demigod figure at the top – the father and the protector of the Nation.
The audio is of “Arirang,” the most beloved Korean traditional song, and a propaganda song of “Kim Jung II.”
Born:
Seoul, South Korea
Currently resides in NYC, New York
Education:
The State University of New York at Purchase, NY, BFA
Parsons School of Design, New York, NY
Selected Exhibitions:
“The 21st Century, The Feminine Century, and the Century of Diversity and Hope” The Incheon Women Artists’ Biennale, Incheon, Korea, 2009
“Homeland Security Garden” The World Financial Center Winter Garden, New York, NY, 2005
“Queens International” The Queens Museum of Art, Queens, NY, 2002
Selected Awards:
The Asian Cultural Council Fellowship, New York, 2008
The Lower Manhattan Cultural Council, MCAF, New York, 2005
The Puffin Foundation Grant, NJ, 2005