A Clearing
by Se Young Au
Jan. 13 – Mar. 15, 2023
at IAO Gallery
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A Clearing is a multi-sensory installation presented as an offering of transportive possibility to those affected by the brutality of the carceral system. A re-imagination of a liminal space; a gateway allowing those on the inside visibility, resistance and ultimately consolation.
Referencing the artwork used as a photographic backdrop found in the visiting area of prisons, the textile component employs a nature motif on silk (landscapes are a popular subject matter in these backdrops) and abstracts it, bending into an infinite lush space, teeming with possibility. Rendered as a portal to another realm; brilliant hues of saturation jade, beryl, emerald and moss are dedicated to connecting the viewer back into the natural world. It is positioned as a respite and in contrast to the harm caused by the prison system and a place for regeneration, growth and care. With consideration to materiality, there is no longer a question who is deserving of consideration and dignity but how?
The scent element offers a way into a fully expressive, resonant world. The intangibility of memory and ephemeral qualities are expressed through this olfactive detail which references wet earth; an omnipresent smell offering a prospect of anew. Restoration comes as an opportunity to become embodied by fully engaging the senses withstanding the oppressive nature of incarceration.
Seemingly benign physical objects contextualize the space: a visiting table where loved ones attempt to bridge worlds with each other. Dual mirrors offer a break in consciousness, no longer functioning solely as an invasive surveillance device, but reflecting possible versions of ourselves; multiple lives that are not solely defined by a single act and actively defy the system’s intention to impose these limitations.
Image: Detail from A Clearing, courtesy of the artist
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ABOUT SE YOUNG AU
Se Young Au (b. 1984 Seoul) is a multi-disciplinary artist who received their BA in photography from Columbia College Chicago. Their work is at the intersection of digital collage, personal archive, installation and olfaction. Au employs vivid, atmospheric imagery and color as they explore themes of survival, possibility and alternative worlds. They have worked within the context of both the commercial and fine art world. Select clients include: Museum of Natural History Los Angeles, Fly By Jing, and Broccoli Magazine. Previous works have been shown at Henry Art Gallery (Seattle) in collaboration with painter Gabriella Sanchez, El Segundo Museum of Art and at AHL Foundation in New York City.
Learn more at senses-studio.com/about
ABOUT IAO GALLERY
The Institute for Art and Olfaction’s gallery is devoted to exhibitions, performances, installations and other expressions that make use of or engage with the medium of scent. The space includes a dedicated 154 square foot room within the IAO, and two window galleries that face the pedestrian street, Chung King Road.
Learn more at artandolfaction.com/exhibitions