Renowned sculptor Kim Lim’s Artistry: A Journey Through Light, Rhythm, and Space
The artistic oeuvre of Singaporean-British sculptor Kim Lim, deeply influenced by form, space, rhythm, and light, is being honoured in a significant exhibition spanning almost four decades of her career. Held at the Hepworth Wakefield, this exhibition offers an immersive and reflective space to encounter Lim’s striking creations, including metal and wood structures, lithographic prints, and poignant stone sculptures.
Born in Singapore in 1936, Kim Lim’s formative years were marked by the challenges of wartime under the shadow of colonialism and occupation. At the age of 17, she travelled to London for her artistic education and later settled in Camden Square with her husband, the Scottish sculptor and painter William Turnbull. Despite personal hardships, such as a life-changing car accident, Lim persisted in sculpting and carving stone, leaving a lasting impact on the art world.
Historically, her contribution to British art was not adequately acknowledged, but the current exhibition aims to re-evaluate her legacy and present her work in a new perspective. The display at the Hepworth Wakefield, along with a forthcoming retrospective at the National Gallery Singapore, seeks to offer fresh insights into Lim’s artistry and lay the foundation for a more comprehensive understanding of her influence.
Notable Aspects of the Exhibition:
– A photograph of Lim’s studio in Camden Square showcases a diverse array of visual inspirations, ranging from ancient landmarks to natural elements, reflecting the depth of her artistic vision.
– ‘Water Piece,’ a sculpture from 1979, encapsulates Lim’s exploration of the organic movement of water, echoing natural erosion processes. The piece held a special place in her son Johnny’s garden, forging a unique connection with nature.
– ‘Ronin,’ an early work crafted from reclaimed wood, represents Lim’s negotiation of her artistic heritage and education, drawing parallels to the wandering samurai of Japanese legend.
– Lim’s extensive travels in Asia are encapsulated in her photograph of a chess game with William Turnbull. Her fascination with the interplay of space and mass in various cultural settings fuelled her artistic journey.
– The artist’s inaugural survey exhibition at the Roundhouse in Camden Town marked a pivotal moment in her career, prompting a transition to denser materials such as marble and stone, signifying a significant evolution in her artistic expression.
The exhibition, ‘Kim Lim: Space, Rhythm & Light,’ at the Hepworth Wakefield offers a comprehensive view of Kim Lim’s artistic legacy, inviting the audience to rediscover her bold and pioneering contributions to the world of sculpture.