Located in Madrid, Spain, the VILLAZAN Gallery recently presented an exhibition full of girlish charm titled “It Was A Very Good Year, Kind Of,” showcasing a series of paintings by contemporary Korean-American artist Stickymonger that narrate personal growth experiences. These works depict the artist’s childhood memories, as well as experiences of revelry in adulthood, exploring themes of diverse identity, sense of belonging, and family relationships, described by the curator as the artist’s most “intimate” exhibition to date.
In a dazzling array of works, the background is set against striking diamond patterns. In this exhibition, the artist immerses herself in a dialogue with her past self, while also incorporating some discussions about the future. The artist deliberately distorts the background patterns of the works “How to Bear” and “Control Freak” to show how she is changing memories of space, time, and perception. Stickymonger says, “These patterns remind people of the time when they had to wear school uniforms to school when they were young, and they also symbolize the strict rules I encountered in my childhood.” And through the visual distortion techniques, it also implies that she is trying to resist the various norms encountered in her youth.
One of the highlights of the exhibition is two large diptychs, with the artist creating two similarly composed works, the left painting called “AM” and the right painting called “PM.” The pieces feature the same five girls as the main characters, but showcase the contrast between their daytime and nighttime lives to the audience. During the daytime, the girls are dressed in school uniforms with innocent facial expressions, while the “PM” version highlights the same characters in a more rebellious way, exuding the restlessness of teenage girls.
In the “Momma Told Me” series, the paintings are placed in wooden frames, exuding an elegant atmosphere. The works cover themes of landscapes and portraits, with the main characters portrayed in a unique and individualistic manner, showing independence and a reluctance to accept the teachings of their elders. Instead of blindly following others’ words, they prefer to follow their inner feelings, showcasing the commonality of today’s younger generation in being true to themselves.
Stickymonger’s drawings of young girls may seem lovely and sweet, but deep down they exude a rebellious charm, which is actually a reflection of the artist herself. Ending the year with an exhibition that is almost semi-autobiographical can also be considered “A Very Good Year.”
“It Was A Very Good Year, Kind Of”
Date: From now until December 10
Location: VILLAZAN Campoamor 17 28004 Madrid, Spain
Image source and learn more: VILLAZAN
