Doughnuts are comfort food that put a smile on our faces on a dull day, and for Korean artist Jae Yong Kim, these delightful and affordable treats offered him a source of simple joy while he struggled to adapt to life in New York City in 2008.
The impact was such that they eventually became his current signature motif and will be displayed in his solo exhibition "Donut Fear" at Tang Contemporary Art's Bangkok space from today until Sept 12.
The personal touch he puts into his doughnut artwork is a sheer joy to watch. And why shouldn't it as he dips a well-baked ceramic doughnut into glossy cream concocted of lustrous glaze, and decorates it with fancy Swarovski crystals to add a sense of volume, thus resulting in its uniqueness. The variety of doughnuts in various shapes and colours will surely brighten your day as each expresses its distinctive character.
While observing the cluster of doughnuts, it might seem as if they are expressing the inner thoughts of contemporary society, itself composed of various doughnuts. As the art is open to interpretation, viewers might very well find a doughnut to their taste. One may discover love, or another happiness -- should they so desire -- by looking at the numerous doughnuts.
Kim's work mirrors his delightful character, as fun is of the highest priority in his artworks. Another notable characteristic is the cartoon-style expressions, which he noted all started at his début solo exhibition when he spotted a child drawing his work in a sketchbook and felt immense happiness. As his work resembles pop art, it naturally emphasises the power of images.
Works by Jae Yong Kim.
Kim's work on doughnuts began in 2012. The journey from then until now has been anything but smooth. It was during his stay in New York in the early 2000s, he had to look for alternative sources of income other than art because it had become difficult to make a living. That was when he started a real doughnut business, which only failed due to the financial crisis, leading to a rough patch thereafter. That led him to make doughnut art during the most challenging period of his life.
Kim's determination all along was to pursue his purpose in life. He said these doughnuts represent people's wishes and desires to pursue their calling, regardless of the obstacles they face.
For Kim's online exhibition go to tangcontemporary.com.
Jae Yong Kim.
Pieces by Jae Yong Kim.
