Dear visitors, welcome to this exhibition dedicated to the artist Sobin Park, on the occasion of the Year of the Wood Dragon. This event is organized by Spazio SV and curated by Thalia Vrachopulos.
2024 is a year of great significance in the Chinese calendar, marked by the powerful symbol of the Wood Dragon. This mythical creature, an emblem of divine nobility and imperial power, has deep roots in Eastern culture, dating back to the Han Dynasty. The artist at the center of this exhibition, Sobin Park, has made the dragon the focal point of her artistic expression. Her works present a unique vision: melancholic dragons intertwined with enchanting maidens, symbolizing the harmony between yin and yang, the complementary principles of Chinese philosophy.
As you observe Park’s canvases, you will notice how her dragons depart from the Western representation of demonic creatures. On the contrary, they appear as benevolent guardians, in line with the Eastern tradition that sees them as bearers of fortune and protection. Park’s technique is as fascinating as her subjects. Using only a pencil, the artist creates detailed and maximalist images through precise, circular movements. This almost ritualistic process transforms the act of drawing into a kind of hypnotic dance.
As you move among the works, reflect on how Park skillfully blends elements of Eastern mythology with contemporary art. Her dragons and maidens are not merely graphic figures but powerful symbols of renewal, evolution, and abundance – central themes in the Year of the Wood Dragon. This exhibition is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the dreamlike world of Sobin Park and to reflect on the profound meaning of the dragon in Eastern culture.