A digital archive of Asian/Asian American contemporary art history

Compassion & Forgiveness

96x216 inches (h x w x d)
1995
oil on panel

"My painting.. entitled 'Compassion' shows non-dualism. Monks/people [gathered] together are meditating or [praying]. Background and figures are mixed together with vermilion color which means energy or power of life. They are non-dualistic... There are not thoughts nor judgement, but being compassionate... On the other hand, the other painting entitled 'Forgiveness' shows dualistic structure. It distinguishes major figures from background. There are suffering people who want to be salvaged by the Absolute being. When spectators look at this painting, dualistic way of thinking arise--suffering people and the savior."

Heejung Kim, "Statement", 1995

Compassion & Forgiveness
Source: Slide