Chicago-based artist Dabin Ahn explores the intersection of memory and materiality in his captivating works. His sculptural paintings, featuring delicate vessels, pottery fragments, and taper candles, are set within handcrafted wooden frames. Each piece serves as a luminous reflection on the passage of time and the remnants that endure.
Currently, Ahn is deeply influenced by the memories of his father, who recently passed away. As he finalized preparations for his solo exhibition at François Ghebaly, he received a call that took him back to Seoul to bid farewell. The body of work in Golden Days resonates with themes of grief and remembrance, encapsulating the essence of his father's legacy.
Ahn describes his creative process as a journey back to the 90s, a time when his family experienced profound happiness. His artwork, often painted in deep blues and grays, conveys a meditative melancholy, embodying the emotions tied to loss. Elements such as candles and shimmering vessels illuminate the somber hues, creating a poignant contrast.
Pieces like "Flora and Fauna II" and "Repose" depict vases that subtly fade into the background, symbolizing his father's presence. The textured surface of the paintings, achieved through the use of sandpaper, adds depth and history to the artwork.
While Ahn typically adheres to a meticulous process, this collection embraces a more organic approach, allowing the materials to express their own stories. Golden Days highlights the beauty of imperfections, reflecting Ahn's personal journey. He shares, "I still feel my dad's presence. I brought back his old watches and glasses, which I now wear, keeping him close in spirit."
The exhibition Golden Days is open until February 14 in Los Angeles, with another solo show scheduled for this spring at Document in Chicago.
