The Operator, Acrylic on canvas, 30F, 72.7×90.9 cm, 2024
#1 Self-Portrait: The Operator
I participated in MBN’s “HWA100”, a survival program featuring 100 artists. The first mission was a self-portrait. Since about half of the contestants would make it through, I thought I had a good chance—but that was pure arrogance.
To pass, I needed at least two votes from the judges, but I only received one. With the “elimination risk” sticker on my chest, I anxiously waited until the very end. In the end, three artists from the elimination pool were given another chance, and I was one of them—barely making it to the next round by the skin of my teeth.
Distortion 70%, 30P, 72.7×53.0 cm, 2024
#2 1:1 Mission: Distortion 70%
Looking at the distorted image through bottled water, I was reminded of the phenomenon of “memory beautification”—the way we subjectively remember our past. Just as water distorts images passing through it, perhaps the memories that define me are also 70% distorted.
As I reflected on distortion, a word with a negative connotation, I impulsively painted a gun, symbolizing my frustration and desire to break free. The piece is composed of objects related to time and memory. Initially, I focused on distortion’s negative aspects, but over time, I realized that not all distortions are bad. Even if our memories are not perfectly accurate, their embellishments allow us to cherish the past more beautifully.
With this in mind, I wanted to depict the images reflected in the water in the most beautiful way possible.
Melting Sugar, Acrylic on canvas, 25S, 80.3×80.3 cm, 2024
#4 Music Collaboration: Melting Sugar
A painting inspired by Ryu Sujeong’s new song “Spring Breeze Blowing Now.” I imagined the two characters portrayed in the song and brought them to life on canvas. Despite the tight 24-hour deadline, I enjoyed the process immensely, and I was happy with the result.
A heartfelt thank you to Ryu Sujeong for the wonderful inspiration—I look forward to hearing more amazing music in the future!
Mom, Acrylic on canvas, 50P, 116.8×72.7 cm, 2024
#5 Jeju island Myth Seolmundae Halmang: mom
This piece is inspired by the myth of Seolmundae Halmang, which I interpreted as a story about a mother’s life and sacrifice. The surface of the sea represents my life, while the depths below symbolize my mother’s.
My childhood, spent in a cramped single-room home, does not remain as an unhappy memory but as one filled with joy—perhaps because my mother bore the weight of poverty alone. I painted this piece while thinking about her, who gave up so much to ensure my colorful life.
Lonely Stone, Acrylic on canvas, 120M, 194.0×130.3 cm, 2024
Final Mission - Five Hundred Arhats Portrait of This Era: Lonely Stone
We do not live solely in pursuit of great enlightenment, but we each build our own statues of belief and identity. Instead of focusing on inner reflection, we often admire, envy, and even covet the statues built by others.
Sometimes, the statues we construct with our beliefs and values shatter—whether by our own hands or through external forces. I, too, have been fragile, experiencing jealousy and resentment, breaking and being broken in turn. Yet, I continue to rebuild.
Even if these statues appear as lonely stones drifting in the vast universe, they orbit, collide, and brush past each other, eventually forming a greater, more vibrant whole.
The first half of 2024 has come to an end with the conclusion of 'HWA100'.
Every round felt like a survival test, but somehow, I made it to an unexpected 4th place—it’s truly an honor. Through this experience, I realized just how many people work tirelessly behind the scenes to produce an hour-long broadcast. Throughout the filming, I felt respected and was able to focus entirely on my mission pieces. Huge thanks to the entire production team!
The more I paint, the heavier the titles artist and painter feel. I’ll keep reflecting on the critiques I received during the show and continue working on my art. I think I’ll feel a strange emptiness every Saturday afternoon from now on—I already miss everyone. But I believe that if I keep painting diligently, we’ll meet again soon.
I’m truly grateful to everyone who shared this journey with me.
And finally… one last declaration—the old rookie, Mothfly, is on the move!