Standards and Control

This artwork visually represents the contradiction between social standards and individual motivation. The glass bottle symbolizes a space accessible only to those who meet certain criteria, and the figures inside appear unwilling to leave. This reflects both the human desire to exist within an ideal framework created by society and the fear that stepping outside of it may result in a loss of value.

However, while this framework may serve as a protective shield, it can also act as a constraint on personal freedom. The motivation to seek social recognition and stability is powerful, but it raises the question of whether it ultimately hinders true freedom and self-actualization.

Ian Kim is a junior at St. Johnsbury Academy in Jeju, Korea. She specializes in illustration across various mediums, including digital graphics, oil painting, and watercolor. Her recent work critically explores the influence of social media on individual identity, societal perception, and cultural ‘norms’ that leaves no room for negotiation. By challenging herself across different forms of drawing, Ian has developed an authentic and dynamic visual language that allows her to express complex ideas. Through her art, she offers nuanced perspectives on the digital age and its impact on humanity.