Shogan 1960

Editor: Here we have Kim Lim’s "Shogan", from the Tate collection. The bold black forms are really striking, almost monumental. What do you see when you look at this print? Curator: I see a powerful exploration of materiality. The texture achieved with the ink, how it’s applied—almost scrubbed onto the surface—that’s where the meaning resides. Did she intend to highlight the physical act of creation? Editor: Possibly. I hadn’t considered the process so directly. Curator: And what of the paper itself? Its weight, its absorbency? Each element dictates the final form, blurring the line between intention and the inherent qualities of the materials. It is also interesting that the artwork dimensions are provided. I wonder how the artwork dimensions affect the art piece itself. Editor: That's a fascinating way to look at it. I'll definitely think more about the materials artists use.