Vancouver-based artist Katie So presents a selection of drawings in her latest series, “As It Goes By.” With a keen eye for capturing moments and sensations, So’s artwork offers viewers a glimpse into her memories and experiences.

Drawing from Memories and Sensations

So embarked on the first drawing in the series during a residency on Galiano Island in 2022. Inspired by her surroundings and the sensory experiences associated with her memories, she continued to add more pastel drawings during residencies in Italy and Spain. These diverse locales offered new color palettes and perspectives compared to the Pacific Northwest, enriching So’s artistic exploration.

Capturing the Essence of Memories

Through her drawings, So endeavors to capture not only the visual aspects of her memories but also the associated sensations. From the warmth of a summer day causing grass to turn brown to the salty scent of the ocean in the early morning, So’s artwork immerses viewers in a multisensory experience. Each drawing serves as a window into a specific moment in time, inviting viewers to reflect on their own memories and sensations.

Embracing the Passage of Time

Many of So’s memories depicted in the series are from summertime, a period she describes as slipping by faster than any other. Through her use of pastels and smudgy colors, So evokes the ephemeral nature of these memories, capturing their fleeting and transient essence. The muddy colors and smudged lines reflect the imperfections and nuances of memory, reminding viewers of the subjective nature of recollection.

Conclusion

Katie So’s “As It Goes By” is a poignant exploration of memory, sensation, and the passage of time. Through her expressive drawings, So invites viewers to join her on a journey through her memories, evoking a sense of nostalgia and reflection. As viewers immerse themselves in So’s artwork, they are reminded of the beauty and impermanence of the moments that shape our lives.