Fine Art nominee

Taekwondo is an art that embodies both dynamic movement and deep mental discipline. The moment you lift your collar and tighten your belt, the noise of the world fades, giving way to inner stillness. Its greatest charm lies in its “splendid speed.” A kick that defies gravity and spins through the air, and the precision to seize a fleeting moment, are not mere attacks but art perfected through countless hours of training. Yet, the root of this brilliance is firm restraint. Through disciplined spirit and respect for the master, Taekwondo transcends technique and becomes a true martial way. One learns to control strength before mastering it, and in the sound of breaking boards, what truly shatters is not wood, but one’s own limits and arrogance. Even at the highest leap, the mind remembers humility at the lowest place. Taekwondo holds serenity within speed and humility within splendor, and this spirit becomes the axis that guides one’s life and the compass of an unwavering mind.

Son Heungja observes the essence of objects and translates that into her works, exploring their deeper meanings. With numerous group exhibitions under her belt, she graduated from the CCP program at Chung-Ang University and participated in the Donggang International Photography Festival. She later completed the Gil Fineart program and exhibited at the Photography in Contemporary Art 2023 exhibition at the Seoul Arts Center, as well as at the Arles Off Photo Festival and Photodays.paris in 2024.