Group exhibition |March 8-23, 2023

Curatorial Statement

In celebration of Women’s History Month, Bodies of Grace, Souls of Beauty highlights the convergence of women’s physicality and intellect. This collection of female portraits from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds showcases the universal nature of women’s beauty. A rejection of the narrow, idealized standard, this show instead champions the diverse expressions of beauty that defy any singular epitome.

Different narratives are brought to light through various shape languages, symbols, and mediums to embrace a more inclusive understanding of beauty. Contemplation is a common thread that weaves a collective narrative throughout the show. Each portrait depicts a woman in repose. One woman is depicted in prayer; another is obscured by the colorful abstractions of her thoughts. The presentation of flowers in several of these portraits is a powerful motif that represents the dichotomy between women’s outward beauty and inward strength. Like how a flower transforms from seed to bloom, women share the same capacities for creative growth and innovation. This is shown through the unique depictions of the female image in each portrait. A portrait of an older sister, composed of a careful mesh of organic shapes and juxtaposing colors, reflects the challenges of the eldest sibling in Korean culture. Another familial figure, a mother, is positioned on a miniature throne adorned by flowers, sporting a pungent red dress with flowing frills to celebrate her admirability as a mother and successful leader in the workplace. In more contemporary interpretations of the female body, the human form is deconstructed as a symbolic defiance of the status quo. The elegance of the soul and wealth of ideas can eclipse external appearances. This beauty is nurtured over time, gradually developing into full blossom.

As visitors explore this exhibition, they are asked to acknowledge that women’s beauty 

is not a superficial trait but a reflection of their individuality and strength. Graceful bodies and beautiful souls are two traits that can coexist; one is not mutually exclusive from the other. The goal is to encourage a broader acceptance of the diverse ways in which women derive strength and spark conversations about the ways in which society perceives and values them.