Erin Kim

Bachelor of Visual Arts
Painting

A collections of distorted portraits of the artist painted onto pieces of canvas. The work dives into the effects of obsessing over one's appearance. As one spirals into such endless obsession, their reflection in the mirror becomes distorted and they are eventually unable to perceive how they truly look, unable or unwilling to acknowledge the figure looking back at them.

Some faces more distorted than others, some lacking features or having sections completely cut off, it illustrates the journey of body dysmorphia, its differing and ever changing severities.

Through its vibrant colours, there is a playful accompaniment to the serious discussion at hand, giving the work a sense of personal and intimate connection through this contrast.

A large mirror is suspended in the middle of the surrounding faces, bringing importance to such an element and allowing the viewer to form their own connection to the work through the experience of being able to look through one in conjunction with the work.

Erin Kim, New Contemporaries, 2024, installation Photo: Document Photography

Erin Kim, New Contemporaries, 2024, installation Photo: Document Photography

who is that looking back at me ?, 2024, acrylic paint on canvas

who is that looking back at me ?, 2024, acrylic paint on canvas

who is that looking back at me ?, 2024, acrylic paint on canvas

who is that looking back at me ?, 2024, acrylic paint on canvas

who is that looking back at me ?, 2024, acrylic paint on canvas

who is that looking back at me ?, 2024, acrylic paint on canvas

Erin is a 3rd Yr Visual arts painting student. She uses acrylic paint to create colourful paintings that explore the ways in which one perceives themselves and congruently the world that they reside in. Her vibrant works playfully detail the distortions of the human body and landscapes. Commonly placing herself into her works, she shares her personal experiences to an an outside audience.