Andrew Seojin Kwon
The Best Leading and Supporting Actor
Design Color on Kent
39.4*54.5cm (15.5*24.4 inch)
This artwork is drawn with design color on Kent paper. I wanted to capture the deep bond between my father and me through a series of scenes, each connected by a winding filmstrip. The top scene shows me and my father driving together, smiling and relaxed, a moment of connection during a simple but intimate activity. The middle section captures a warm, familial moment of enjoying a meal together, with my father gesturing joyfully to celebrate my birthday. The bottom portion reflects a baseball memory, where the father and son are portrayed as teammates or coach and player, a symbol of their teamwork, encouragement, and shared passions. Though the "actor" in these scenes, my father, is no longer physically present, this artwork reflects how his presence continues to live on in my memories, much like a film that keeps playing, even when the actors have left the stage. This work is a tribute to my father who was both a leading figure and a supportive influence in my life.
My Father and His Horse
water color on Kent
74*39.4cm
29.1* 15.5inch
This artwork is a tribute to my father, capturing his love for speed racing and life. I created a fan-shaped paper sculpture that reveals different images depending on the viewer’s angle. From the left, the piece showcases his beloved racing car, illustrated in vibrant poster colors. It captures his passion for speed and adventure, reflecting his love for the thrill of racing and his appreciation for precision and movement. From the right side, I rendered a warm and joyful portrait of my father in softer watercolors. This portrayal captures his kindness and zest for life, highlighting his role as a loving father and a man with a big heart. I designed this work in a way that viewers’ perspectives are shifted as they move around the work like a sculpture. The contrast between the car and his smile creates a compelling narrative about his dual identity — a man who could balance excitement with warmth and care.
Erlkönig
Charcoal on Kent
39.4*54.5cm (15.5*21.4inch)
I sought art and literature to process my grief, and Goethe's Faust was one such inspiration. I tried to capture the story's deep emotional turmoil and existential despair by transcribing it into the vivid and haunting expression of the rider. The dark, dramatic shades emphasize the tension and agony of the moment, as the rider seems to be caught in a struggle, possibly with the Devil. The depiction of this struggle in the artwork serves as a powerful reflection of a broader theme of human existence. It portrays the innate human drive to seek direction and purpose, even when lost. I wanted to illustrate how the protagonist needs to fully embrace his emotions to move forward to the next destination. renewed with hope and purpose. My interpretation of Faust has a more hopeful message in that the struggle to find oneself and comfort others in the face of grave loss can reveal the true character and strength of the protagonist.
Self-portrait
Pencil on Kent;
39.4*54.5cm (15.5*21.4 inch)
After an eventful year, I wanted to take a pause and reflect on who I am and whether I would even recognize that person anymore. This self-portrait was my attempt to explore my introspective inner self. I paid particular attention to detail in the shading and textures to create a more lifelike quality. My expression is contemplative, with one hand gently resting against my face, a moment of deep thought or reflection. The dark tones in the background contrast with the lighter tones of my skin to draw a distinction between my being that is distinct from the background. Despite the chaotic circumstance, I wanted to attempt at calmness through the peaceful expression and the thoughtful pose. I also wanted to convey stability and order through the technical precision of the shading and the contrast. I was encouraged by the overall composition of this piece, which seems balanced and stable, reflecting the growth of the actual subject of the drawing—me.