Introducing Yeonsu Lim, an innovative artist whose work spans installations and site-specific interventions. Yeonsu’s art deeply explores the metamorphosis of objects by wrapping them, significantly altering their relationship with the viewer. Grounded in the minimalist principles of Laozi and the famous “Less is more” philosophy by architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Yeonsu’s creations invite us to ponder the ephemeral nature of reality and the intricate connections between humans and their surroundings. . In this interview, Yeonsu will discuss her installation “Present,” showcased at the Larnaca Biennale 2023, delve into her impressions of Larnaca and its vibrant biennale, and share inspiring words for future participants.
Who is artist Yeonsu Lim? Share with us a few things about you and your work in general.
As an artist I create installations and site-specific interventions that analyse how by wrapping them I can produce the metamorphose of objects and change their relationship with the viewer radically. My art is fundamentally based on Lao zi (老子)’s minimalist idea that the more you empty, the more you can fill it and the expression ’Less is more’ by the German architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.
The act of ‘hiding’ the objects is presented as an ephemeral performance. Their presentation in this transformed state can last for a short or a longer period. I am interested in analysing how this simple gesture can transform completely our relationship to the object, converting it in magic and mysterious.
Through multimedia installations, sculptures wrapped in fabric, and conceptual works, the I invite the viewer to reflect on the ephemeral nature of reality and the interconnectedness between human beings and their surroundings.
Tell us a few words about your selected installation ”Present” exhibited at the Larnaca Biennale 2023 ?
What kind of house do you live in ? You may think of your hometown or your current house. As a South Korean artist working in Europe I wanted to talk about the nomadic life and communication of contemporary individuals and explore the duality and transience through my work. My home guarantees not only a physical architectural space but also a metaphorical and spiritual meaning. Ultimately, I believe that home is the home of the heart and a treasure trove of memories. The amorphousness, permeability, and fluidity of water most closely resemble the untouchable properties of memory. In addition, I wanted to show the fragmentary culture of South Korea through the material flexibility that the oriental plum scent in my memory creates.
You have visited Larnaca for the setting of your installation. What was your overall impression of Larnaca and Larnaca Biennale?
During my visit to the Larnaca Biennale, I was impressed by the atmosphere of international exchange with artists, sense of community, and their attempt for the integration of cultural environments. The visiting artists were able to communicate with trust and intimacy thanks to the professional and organized Larnaca Biennale team, resulting in a good overall result. By selecting Larnaca’s surroundings, local art museums and gallery as an exhibition space, they made it possible to understand Larnaca’s history, culture, and urban characteristics. i hope that the Larnaca Biennale will raise creative artistic discourse as well as political and social issues facing humanity in the future, establishing itself as a representative cultural icon of the world beyond Larnaca.
A message you would like to send to artists that will apply in the future for participation in the Larnaca Biennale.
The Larnaca Biennale, with its international vision, discovers young artists with potential and creates a venue for art from a contemporary perspective through new collaborations and ideas with artists. Can you imagine the interaction between audiences, artists, and the biennale team in Larnaca’s famous art places along with the Biennale exhibition hall ? Larnaca’s beautiful terrain, architecture, and art galleries will provide great inspiration to participating artists in the future. I believe that the Larnaca Biennale will become a vibrant cultural venue that will grow greatly together with emerging international artists.
Looking forward to seeing you in Larnaca 🙂
