Kim Ran Debuts Solo Exhibition “Throw Back” Showcasing Threadlike Paintings
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Kim Ran launches first solo show “Throw Back” at Rho Gallery – The exhibition opened Feb. 20, 2026 in Insa‑dong, Seoul, featuring her signature layered, threadlike paintings of Korean hanok neighborhoods and international landmarks, and will run through March 5 [1].
Paintings use needle‑sized lines to evoke time and memory – Kim applies paint through a tiny opening, creating interlaced lines that she describes as chains linking past, present and possible futures, a process she finds meditative and energizing, working up to 12 hours daily [1].
Works draw inspiration from traditional Korean houses – The curved rooflines of hanok serve as visual motifs; her pieces depict Jeonju, Andong and Seoul hanok districts, translating architectural contours into threadlike forms that suggest invisible connections between people [1].
International sites appear alongside Korean subjects – The show also includes depictions of the Empire State Building, the London Eye and Prague’s Vltava River, extending her exploration of layered memory beyond domestic architecture [1].
Artist reflects on decade‑long artistic development – A 2016 Daegu Arts University graduate, Kim settled on her current style in 2019; she notes gradual shifts in line thickness and density across the exhibition, emphasizing depth over immediate visual clarity [1].
Kim seeks emotional resonance from viewers – She says the greatest reward is when audiences linger before her paintings, hoping the layered world she creates leaves a deep, lasting emotional impact [1].
- Kim Ran – “My paintings are composed of countless threadlike lines layered one upon another. I think they are like chains that stretch from the past to the present, and even to a future that may never arrive.” (explaining the symbolism of her technique)
- Kim Ran – “I like time to myself. I get energy from working alone.” (describing her solitary work habit)
- Kim Ran – “There is nothing that makes me happier than when viewers stand before my paintings for a long time.” (expressing her goal for audience engagement)