Zadie Xa: House Gods, Animal Guides and Five Ways 2 Forgiveness

Peaceful installation at the Whitechapel Gallery by Korean-Canadian artist Zadie Xa.

At the centre of the work was a fabric structure inspired by a traditional Korean home known as a hanok. Around the top were small sculptures called kkoktu which are used in Korean funerary rituals to accompany the deceased into the afterlife. Other pieces including beautiful hanging cloaks and jackets are meant to lead you through the space.

I didn’t really understand the commentary to the work other than that it represents power, home and belonging but I did find it a lovely calming, chill out space at the end of a number of vibrant exhibitions I’d already done at the gallery.

Closed 30 April 2023


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