Gangmul

About Gangmul

This contemporary tapestry, inspired by nature, is white with patterns in gray.

The uniquely stunning sculptural fibre art of Chung-Im Kim has garnered her international recognition. Inspired by her own rich Korean heritage and intricate patterns found in nature, Kim uses industrial felt to create her wall hangings. Coloured ink added in expressive brushstrokes adds dramatic contrast, visible texture and distinctive detail to the white fabric. The process to create these pieces is intricate and time-consuming, as each tapestry is hand-sewn.
Kim sews together small pieces of industrial felt, pulled taut to create a raised pattern and tension in the design. In Korean, Gangmul means river water.

“For me, patterns are everywhere and can manifest in many ways. At the same time, the structural modules represent certain growths or changes brought about through the passage of time.” Chung-Im Kim

Chung-Im Kim has received accolades and exhibitions for her work from prestigious institutions such as the Boston Museum of Art, the invitational Bojagi Exhibition at the Suwon Park Museum in Korea, the Museum Nagele in the Netherlands, and the Belgian Triennial Contemporary Textile Arts Exposition. Kim's exquisite design and execution have been honoured with top prizes and awards in many international art competitions. One of her works was selected as a gift from Canada to the president of China. She received her MFA from Seoul Women's University in 1984 and has taught at OCAD University in Toronto since 2006. Chung Im-Kim is represented by the Oeno Gallery.