First of the Frieze LIVE Seoul programme, HONG Ji Young's durational performance senses the "sleep" of those who have lost faith in the future, capturing the motionless nude bodies through the lens of a camera.
At the centre of HONG Ji Young’s durational performance is the concept of stratocumulus; often called rain clouds that are thick and dark enough to block the sun. Hong describes that “a body saturated with water like these clouds, flowing down deeper and deeper into the earth's navel. Within it, a body that tightens and embraces, soon elicits ecstasy”. Leading up to the final performative act, Hong invited 11 performers to share her bed during the monsoon season in Korea, taking photographs throughout the process. Through her black-and-white film camera that serves as her physical aid, Hong depicts ‘sleep’ as indistinguishable as death for those whose future is missing. These intertwined bodies lie in the midst of a life that incessantly instrumentalizes the present. Welcoming viewers, she calls for stillness and silence, prolonged gazing and participation.
Performance instructions
"To traverse the stairwell passageways and immerse yourself in our bodies, we ask that you to make a few sincere commitments:
- During this one-hour performance, please set aside your phone and give us your full attention.
- Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited during the performance. You may take photos once all the performers have exited.
- You are welcome to experience the performance by lying down, sitting, or standing. However, please remain outside the safety line so the performers can concentrate on their movements."
HONG Ji Young’s performance takes place at Abnormal in Jungno district, Seoul, on September 2, 8-9pm.
Credits
Direction & Photography: Hong Ji Young
Performers: Kwon Bara, Kim Insun, Park Sangmi, Bahk Joohyeon, Yu Jiwon, Lim Yeongyo, Jang Yujin, Jeong Da gyeom, Jung Hyejung, Hong Ji Young, Hwang Sunmi
Sound: Young_An
Graphic Design: Hwang Arim
About the artist
HONG Ji Young (b. 1998) primarily works with photography and researches into queer, violence, and sexuality based on the physical body. Hong writes and perform and photographs for everything that exists but is invisible. She published 『everything flows』 after winning the Vostok Press’ publishing competition ‘docking!’ in 2022. The artist is also part of a creative collective W/O F. as an artist and is in charge of curating in the group.
Booking is required, as capacity is limited.