Sookkyung Park Blooming, 2024
Mulberry Paper, Shredded Paper, Paper-covered Wire, Thread
Variable dimensions
Presented by Catalyst Contemporary
Blooming seeks to convey the profound symbolism of the lotus flower, emphasizing the interconnectedness of life and the unity within our society. The lotus, which rises from the mud to bloom beautifully, serves as a metaphor for resilience, renewal, and the deep connections that bind us all. During the recent pandemic, I was struck by the realization that our social activities and human relationships are sustained by these invisible yet powerful connections. The pandemic underscored how intertwined our lives are, even when physically separated.
In my installation, I explore this theme by using the lotus flower to represent the delicate yet strong ties that connect individuals and communities. Blooming reflects the growth and upward movement that occurs when we come together, transcending difficulties and emerging stronger. Through this work, I aim to highlight the beauty and strength of our collective connections, illustrating how our society, like the lotus, can rise above challenges when we recognize and nurture the bonds that unite us. The installation invites viewers to reflect on the importance of these connections in our shared human experience.
Artist Bio
Sookkyung Park, born in South Korean and now living in Maryland, U.S., founded an Arts & Crafts studio in 1982 and ran it for 25 years. In her 50s, she moved to the U.S. and pursued a B.A. in Studio Arts at the University of Maryland, College Park, graduating in 2016. Her artistic journey in the U.S. included participation in regional and international juried exhibitions and features in publications like The Washington Post, The Korea Times, East City Art, Bmore Art, and others. Specializing in paper-based artworks, a medium she’s mastered over decades, Park continued her education at Towson University’s MFA Program, graduating in 2023. She has received notable accolades, including twice winning the CAGO (Contemporary Art Gallery Online) Best Award in the 3-D Category (2020, 2021) and first prize in the 2023 “Paper Made” international competition by Fiber Art Now.