Here, we ask an artist to frame the essential details behind one of their latest works.
Bio: Zadie Xa, 38, London (@zadiexa)
Title of work: Princess Bari (2022).
Where to see it: “House Spirits” at Jessica Silverman (621 Grant Ave, San Francisco) until July 16.
Three words to describe it: Veneration, respect, power.
What was on your mind at the time: Ancestor worship.
An interesting feature that’s not immediately noticeable: There are printed images of kimchi sewn into the work which are emblems of power. Equally, these sliced spiced cabbages double as vaginas. There are also a few knife blades sewn through the bottom of the piece created out of reflective fabric. They glow when the lights are turned off. Finally, the pattern of this piece is constructed from 10 circles and lies completely flat when placed on the floor or against the wall.
How it reflects your practice as a whole: This piece embodies my interest in performativity, Korean folk traditions, hybridity, and the conflation of cultural reference points.
One song that captures its essence: “Minjokyo (Entrance)” by Lim Kim.