I Choose to Live

‘I Choose to Live’ is a two-piece textile installation exploring resilience, vulnerability, and the joy of creative expression.

The indigo self-portrait presents the artist, Hyunjung Lee, as a living canvas, adorned with symbols, Bible verses, song lyrics, and affirmations. Each mark reflects a chapter of her life, celebrating strength, hope, and the transformation of inner struggles into creative energy. Facing the tiger persona in the polychromatic piece, the two self-portraits enter a playful dialogue, amplifying each other’s vitality and presence. The polychromatic textile features whimsical animals inspired by Korean folk art, reimagined with a contemporary sensibility. Humour and positive energy spark viewers’ imagination, inviting play, wonder, and emotional resonance.

Interactive elements invite participation. Visitors can create stamped prints, writing affirmations for themselves. Children delight in playful engagement, while adults are encouraged to explore emotions and inspirations beyond those felt by the artist, discovering courage, insight, and joy in their own way.

Music accompanies each piece, sharing rhythms and lyrics that inspired Lee. Audiences can immerse themselves in the works, feeling the pulse of perseverance and optimism, while opening space for their
own reflections and discoveries.

Influences from Basquiat, Van Gogh, and Pacita Abad guided Lee’s approach to self-portraiture. Observing how these artists expressed themselves and explored personal experience inspired her to create textile self-
portraits that carry her own voice while resonating with a broader artistic lineage.

Through batik and natural indigo dyeing for the indigo piece and colourful screen printing for the polychromatic piece, the textiles come alive, creating an immersive, multi-sensory environment. ‘I Choose to Live’ celebrates resilience, joy, and positive energy, inviting viewers to experience, play, and leave inspired and resonant.