********THEO presents Rigger, a solo exhibition by Sungjoo Ham, at Lab201 from 14 October to 27 October 2023.

Rigging involves developing a digital skeleton that animates a 3D character in video games or animation. Those who perform rigging—riggers—create joints and bones to bring the character to life based on the animator's image. Rigging and painting both share the aim of creating life-like images.

Sungjoo Ham's 'new realistic painting' begins with the object's shape in front of the eye. The camera algorithm distorts the shape, which is then displayed on a virtual digital medium. Consequently, the resulting paintings are depicted with increased three-dimensionality compared to reality. The artist's main focus is the interpretation and alteration of the image conveyed through the object in the painting and the artist's own perspective.

As a painter, one focuses on eliminating anything that's not essential to interpreting the object being imaged, similar to the process of rigging. By omitting unnecessary layers and processes, the painter can fully convey the image of the object, which has been reinterpreted and redefined. The exhibition Rigger & Painter showcases paintings and screens featuring achromatic forms that minimise superfluous colours, leaving only the painting's essence.

The current era places significant importance on the artist's intention or the viewer's interpretation when it comes to a work's meaning. As we move closer to the end of traditional painting, artist Ham attempts to engage with the artistry and essence of painting itself. The Rigger & Painter exhibition provides a space for contemplating the fundamental nature of painting as seen by a realist painter. It draws parallels to the rigger, who strips away extraneous layers to give life to a static character.

Press release courtesy LAB201.