Cognitive Dissonance: A New Exhibition by Seonna Hong
In the age of information overload and conflicting beliefs, cognitive dissonance has become a familiar sensation for many. This feeling of discomfort arises when our actions or beliefs do not align, forcing us to confront the discrepancies in our thinking. Instead of ignoring this dissonance, it is important to acknowledge it and incorporate new information into our lives. This concept serves as the inspiration for a new body of work by Los Angeles-based artist Seonna Hong, set to debut at Hashimoto Contemporary.
Seonna Hong, known for her award-winning work in television and animation, is renowned for her intricate and autobiographical paintings. Her signature style features abstract landscapes with visible brushstrokes, delicate rainbows, and sparse trees. The figures in her paintings, often depicted in monochromatic dresses without distinct facial features, add a human element to her evocative scenes.
In her latest series, Hong explores themes of care and reciprocity against a backdrop of environmental and political turmoil. The looming threat of climate change and global unrest play a significant role in shaping the narrative of her paintings. Works like “The Collision of Truths” and “Laotong” feature women with clenched fists, symbolizing a desire to fight back, while other pieces convey a sense of community and compassion.
One of the standout paintings, “Eudaimonia,” showcases a group of figures holding hands as they navigate a treacherous terrain. The title, derived from an ancient Greek term meaning the “highest human good,” underscores the central theme of Hong’s new body of work. Through a juxtaposition of abstraction and figuration, temporary and enduring elements, and desolation and care, Hong’s paintings invite viewers to contemplate the complexities of our current reality.
While Hong’s earlier works focused on the duality of memory and possibility, her latest pieces feel more urgent, emphasizing the importance of human connection in times of crisis. As loss and hardship pervade our world, Hong’s art serves as a reminder of the resilience and support we can find in each other.
“Cognitive Dissonance” will be on display at Hashimoto Contemporary from December 13 to January 10. To stay updated on Seonna Hong’s work, follow her on Instagram. Experience the poignant and thought-provoking art of Seonna Hong as she navigates the complexities of our modern world through her captivating paintings.
