Hwa-Ryoung (Emily) Sung

BFA Painting

ARTIST STATEMENT: The title of the painting,부녀 (Bunyeo), translates as the relationship of father and daughter in Korean. 부녀 (Bunyeo) depicts my father at the center, guiding my sister and me down the path to a better life.

My family and I immigrated to the United States in 2001. As an immigrant family trying to settle down and seek a better future, my father sacrificed his life for the family and worked seven days a week, 12 to 13 hours a day, often jumping around states. Even though my dad could not be fully part of his daughter’s journey in growth, my sister and I knew that he was always with us.

My piece captures the significance and the value of the father and daughter relationship. The obscure forest signifies the obstacles and tragedies we encountered. The glowing light in the center symbolizes attaining security and a brighter future. Lastly, the image of us walking through the forest portrays guidance and overcoming various challenges as a family.