Western civilization has left a profound imprint on the modern world through advancements in technology and economic prosperity. The global influence of Westernization is extensive, impacting social culture and shaping socio-political ideologies like democracy and individualism. Many societies have looked to the West as a guiding model.

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Personally, my exposure to Western cultures has been significant. I pursued higher education in both Dubai and the United States, where the pervasive influence of Western civilization often elevated Western ideas above others.

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For instance, in my art history classes, the focus was primarily on Western art movements, especially during the pre-camera era. The advent of cameras democratized Western artistic practices, shifting emphasis from technical craftsmanship to the exploration of ideas. Meanwhile, discussions about art from non-Western cultures were limited, often presenting stylized versions of traditional Asian or abstracted African art. This approach not only fails to delve into the contributions of contemporary artists from these cultures but also perpetuates misunderstandings, ignorance, and stereotypes.

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Motivated by these observations, I aimed to address this issue by highlighting the distinctive characteristics of Korean art practices. After years of research and learning from a Korean traditional lacquer master, I discovered that Korean artists frequently create iterations of their ancestors' work, emphasizing a connection to their heritage rather than merely replicating visuals or techniques. This hands-on approach, often involving physical and mental challenges, such as extracting lacquer from a poison oak tree, instills an appreciation for labor. Through this process, artists spiritually connect with their ancestors, ultimately realizing how they can contribute uniquely to the artistic discourse.

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In my art series, I sought to embody the spirit of Korean art practices while infusing my personal style. The intention is not to assert the superiority of Western or Korean art practices but rather to offer a different perspective on artistic expression.