AMcE Creative Arts is pleased to be presenting a solo exhibition of Seattle based abstract painter Soo Hong. Her show Metaplay includes large scale paintings inspired by quotidian moments, internal dialogues and cultural queries expressed through vibrant color and brushstroke energized with a cadence the artist likens to her life’s soundtrack. The contiguous pieces in Metaplay riff on the tempo of music as it relates to her thought patterns and processes.
Having lived and exhibited in places around the world, including, London, Shanghai, her native South Korea, and now the U.S. Soo’s work explores issues surrounding cultural identity. Her experience of varying cultural norms and expectations has precipitated her observational practice. Her work serves as visual record of her fluid thoughts around negotiating the relationship to her current environment with its inherent traditions and societal agreements. Her paintings represent an unbound freedom of expression released from any formal adherence to a determined identity.
An observer of both philosophical and mundane moments, she finds joy in the unique opportunities that surround her. Each piece contains a disarming sense of play rife with potential designed to engender “a sense of belonging and inclusion regardless of the differences in backgrounds.”
To accompany the show, DJ Sharlese of Seattle radio station KEXP has created a playlist inspired by Soo’s paintings that will be made available through the gallery. Sculptures made in collaboration with Seattle-based ceramicist Jacob Foran will be on view in the main space Niche Market.
Soo was born in Seoul, Korea and prior to moving to the US lived in various countries including China, England, and Italy. She attended London’s Central Saint Martins College of Arts after studying furniture design in Korea. Her work has been shown in galleries, museums, and fairs around the world, and she has been awarded grants from D&AD (London), GAP (Seattle) and Bellevue Arts Program (Bellevue). Soo currently lives and works in Bellevue, WA.
Visitor information: Open Thursday - Sunday from 11am-6pm PST, Wednesdays by appointment
Website: https://amcecreativearts.com
Cost: Free
Venue Type: Gallery
Diversity: AAPI , BIPOC , Women/Femme
Accessibility: Emotional Support Animals Allowed, Wheelchair Accessible
