OKNP Seoul is holding a solo exhibition of Na Yoonsun (1992~), “Zero State of Mind,” from the 28th of June to the 2nd of August. Na Yoonsun expresses the stream of consciousness that individuals think of in abstract images using ink and color powder on wood. The exhibition includes a new work, “The 23rd of February,” and “Happy Birthday Mr. Smith.”

“Living in a time where personal tastes are infinitely and spontaneously shared, I find trends that seem new but are reproduced in the same pattern at the end. I think this phenomenon resembles the style that still exists in art and how artists continuously reproduce works within the style. I felt these patterns surrounding me as an enormous cultural habit, and I tried to take advantage of them with subjectivity rather than simply accepting the infinite value of the information given. I try to break out of the framework of predictable trends, taking the sources of work from online platforms and applying my own rules for creation.” – From the artist’s note.

Consider the meaning of ‘unpredictable.’ It means entering the language realm where the boundaries are blurred and ambiguous beyond the ‘safe’ framework we have established. Na Yoonsun tries to create a ‘zero state’ of consciousness with the variables of the paradox of uncertain situations and rules. Uncertainty acts as a roadmap that allows us to step off a set path and take an unexpected journey, providing a turning point in our thinking.
In “Zero State of Mind,” the artist makes it hard to judge the work by harmonizing coincidence and indeterminacy, enabling a new creative expression and showing the process of creating a zero state of consciousness, which is the final goal. The artist continues to change the material and direction of work through keyword searches and drawing lots, which makes the work develop in an unexpected direction. Na Yoonsun’s work does not have a clear blueprint; instead, she applies rules that change fluidly. Her work illustrates the idea that it can develop into a deeper meaning or a unique archetype beyond clichés or routinely repeated everyday situations. It provides possibilities for more profound thoughts and interpretations. The artist creates new formative pleasure on the screen with the ironic attempts in this exhibition and hopes the audience will experience freedom from frustration through the exhibition.
Na Yoonsun is based in South Korea. She graduated from Ewha Womans University’s College of Art and Design, majoring in Korean Painting and Art History. She earned her master’s degree and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the same college. She has had two solo exhibitions and participated in five group exhibitions. Her works are collected at several places, including the Sofitel Ambassador Seoul Hotel.