'relax' bag - 1 Painting

I am Eun Gabi, a Korean artist working on the theme of masks. We all live with our own masks. In the constant conflict between the past and the present, we often conceal our true selves and present a packaged exterior. Hiding behind colored contact lenses, dyed hair, heavy makeup, and flashy clothing is perhaps not unfamiliar. Though we are born with one face, we simultaneously navigate various personas. While we all know that the “outer me” and the “inner me” are different, many of us still hide and package our true selves to conform to society's ideal image. This often leads us to confront the question, “Who am I? What is my identity?” Ultimately, what matters is our authentic selves and the courage to understand and accept that reality. Loving oneself transcends personal issues; it is only when we respect and love ourselves that others can truly love us. Accepting ourselves as we are allows for healthy communication and connections with others. We are all multifaceted beings, embodying different roles and identities. We show different aspects of ourselves in family, work, and among friends, yet all these facets come together to complete “me.” In this process, we may experience conflicts between societal expectations and our true selves. However, through this clash, we continue our journey to discover our genuine identities. Accepting this layered self and the journey of finding our true selves is a crucial part of personal growth. Through my work, I hope you can discover your inner self and encourage yourself gently. Let us remember that the true essence behind our masks is the most beautiful and precious part of who we are.