Ari Kim’s Art Isn’t “Mae-Deup (매듭),” It’s A Reality We Can All Understand

Ari Kim’s Art Isn’t “Mae-Deup (매듭),” It’s A Reality We Can All Understand

By Jonathan Hunt

Galerie Shibumi in Chinatown is set to open its doors on Thursday, January 16, 2025, for a new exhibition by artist and award-winning filmmaker Ari Kim. However, I was able to attend a VIP reception last night and got a preview of this exquisite show.  The show, titled “Mae-Deup (매듭),” this show draws its name from a Korean term that translates to “knot” or “connection.” For centuries in Korean decorative arts, this knotting practice has served as a symbolic thread tying people together across generations. Now, in Ari Kim’s hands, it becomes both a thematic anchor and a creative prompt for an array of paintings and installations that invite viewers to reflect on family ties, memory, and the subtle gestures of care that shape our lives. The exhibition officially runs from January 17 through February 23, and those who step inside will encounter an immersive blend of visual art and music intended to stir emotions and spark personal recollections.

According to gallery representatives, “Mae-Deup” will feature a series of Ari’s latest paintings, each exploring the idea of connectedness through imagery that unites past and present. Central to many of these works is the motif of braided hair, a visual cue that has both personal and cultural resonance for the artist. In Korean tradition, hair is regarded as an ancestral gift, something to be treated with reverence and protected from harm. Ari draws on that notion, depicting intertwined locks as more than a mere stylistic choice. Instead, these braids evoke an umbilical connection between figures who may be family members—perhaps a mother and daughter, or an older self and a younger self. The choice remains deliberately ambiguous, inviting viewers to place their own interpretations and familial histories onto the canvas.

“Mae-Deup (매듭)” marks a new phase for Ari, who has spent a significant portion of her creative life exploring different mediums. Raised in a household that encouraged artistic expression, she recalls being two years old when she first started drawing on wallpaper whenever she ran out of paper. Rather than scolding her, her mother let her continue, fostering a sense of freedom that Ari says laid the groundwork for her future pursuits. That early embrace of color, line, and space eventually led her to study painting, printmaking, and video art at the collegiate level. Yet her artistic trajectory would change again when she discovered the power of filmmaking during her undergraduate years at NYU.

Surrounded by peers who were dedicated to cinema, Ari initially joined their film sets to help out, never suspecting how much the process would captivate her. Spending weekends filming meant immersing herself in an environment where collaboration was paramount. Sound technicians, cinematographers, editors, and actors all brought their individual visions and skills, blending them into one unified endeavor. In contrast, painting had allowed her a measure of solitude and personal control—she could decide every detail herself. But filmmaking required relinquishing some of that control and trusting a collective. Far from seeing this as a drawback, Ari found it liberating and inspiring, a creative synergy she now channels into all her projects.

That synergy is perhaps most evident in how “Mae-Deup” integrates a musical component alongside the visual works. Rather than display her paintings in silence, Ari enlisted award-winning composer and musician Jackson A. Waters, known for his compositions for orchestras, chamber ensembles, and wind groups. After discussing the backstory behind each piece, Waters composed a distinct musical score for each painting. Gallery visitors will have the option to listen to these scores through Bluetooth beacons placed near the artworks, allowing a personalized experience of pairing each visual piece with a specific auditory mood or narrative. By doing so, Ari aims to expand the emotional resonance of her work, ensuring that each painting conveys not only an image but also an accompanying soundscape.

The underlying themes of “Mae-Deup” reflect not just aesthetic concerns but also personal introspection. Ari has long been interested in how small, often unspoken acts of care connect people over the years. She recalls instances from her own upbringing, such as her grandmother quietly shielding her from the sun or her mother removing a stray white hair. These may seem mundane on the surface, yet Ari sees them as profound demonstrations of love and concern. Capturing these moments in paint has become her way of preserving and venerating them, and she hopes viewers will recall their own silent gestures of affection within their families. In her view, these subtle behaviors form the knots—both literal and metaphorical—that hold relationships together.

While painting remains a cornerstone of Ari’s practice, her evolution as a filmmaker has also garnered significant recognition. She has won awards at the Cannes World Film Festival, the Berlin Short Film Festival, and the Independent Shorts Award for her work on “The Eyes of the Ocean Are Always Swollen.” Despite the accolades, Ari insists that film and painting are complementary rather than competing disciplines. She regards painting as a private, inward journey—something she does in her studio with no one else around—while film is an ensemble endeavor, requiring an array of professionals to bring an idea to life on screen. Filmmaking, in her words, demands “an extraordinary level of trust”: a willingness to believe that each person’s contribution will enrich, rather than dilute, the vision.

In discussing how she balances these different forms of creativity, Ari points to the contrasting demands each places on her. In painting, she can shift gears at a moment’s notice: one day might be consumed by detail work, another by sweeping gestures that redefine the entire canvas. In filmmaking, however, a single oversight—whether in the lighting design or the sound editing—can upset the delicate equilibrium of the entire scene. Yet she values this collaborative test of faith, comparing it to the trust that exists in tight-knit relationships, where one relies on the other to maintain the shared bond.

Ari’s fascination with bonds extends beyond just family connections. One of her earliest breakthroughs in New York came when she screened a twelve-minute video piece titled “소주 한잔 해요 (Let’s Have Soju).” This project revolved around a two-hour phone call with her father, who had often spoken about how meaningful it would be for them to share a drink one day. That aspiration represented more than a simple beverage—it signified time spent together, emotional closeness, and a ritual passing of adulthood. Although the video was heavily grounded in Korean-language dialogue, Ari was surprised to find it resonated with a woman who did not speak Korean. Through subtitles and raw emotional content, this viewer was reminded of her own father, someone she had not thought about in years. The encounter solidified Ari’s conviction that honest storytelling can surpass linguistic and cultural divides, reinforcing her dedication to making work that stems from deeply personal truths.

“Mae-Deup (매듭)” is further set apart by the environment in which it is displayed. Galerie Shibumi is notably smaller and more intimate than many of New York’s larger exhibition spaces. Located in the heart of Chinatown, it draws a diverse audience, some of whom might intentionally seek it out, others of whom might stumble upon it by chance while exploring the neighborhood’s narrow streets. Ari appreciates this scale, describing it as a place that allows viewers to slow down and engage with each piece, rather than hurrying through a vast hall. She believes that this unhurried, thoughtful engagement mirrors the show’s focus on patient, attentive observation of human relationships.

In addition, the artist emphasizes that although “Mae-Deup” spotlights her work as a painter, she has no intention of leaving filmmaking behind. In fact, she is currently finalizing a short film titled “(24),” shot the previous summer, and she has also begun outlining a screenplay set in 2012 New York, centered on the dynamic between a grandfather and granddaughter. With each step forward, Ari envisions weaving her two main art forms in increasingly interconnected ways, always looking for opportunities to merge the introspective qualities of painting with the collaborative thrust of filmmaking.

Regarding the commercial side of this latest body of work, pricing details remain private. Interested collectors are encouraged to email contact@galerieshibumi.com for specifics. Ari’s decision to keep pricing off the public list is partly practical but also speaks to her perspective on how art enters someone’s life. Just as the braids in her paintings represent an ancestral gift or a symbolic connection across time, so too does the act of purchasing a piece form a new knot between the collector and the creative journey that birthed the work. In her view, that exchange can be as meaningful as the artwork itself.

As the show’s opening date approaches, the anticipation among art lovers in Manhattan is noticeable. Critics who have previewed images from “Mae-Deup” mention its poignant blend of Korean heritage and universal themes, praising the heartfelt narratives that emerge from seemingly simple depictions of braids and familial embraces. Others highlight the unique technological element: the ability to hear a specially composed musical score while viewing the art. This innovation encapsulates Ari’s broader mission: to forge connections that transcend visual boundaries, linking one sense to another in the same way families are linked by intangible threads of devotion.

In many ways, “Mae-Deup (매듭)” feels like a culmination of everything Ari has been working toward—a marriage of cultural heritage, personal reflection, and collaborative innovation. For New Yorkers who wander into Galerie Shibumi starting January 16, the exhibit offers more than just paintings on a wall. It promises an encounter with the artist’s own recollections, a journey through the quieter moments that punctuate a family’s story. And it invites each viewer to linger, to listen, and to discover in their own memories the knots and connections that hold their lives together. With the show running through February 23, there is ample opportunity to appreciate this weaving of personal narratives, ancestral traditions, and contemporary artistry that Ari Kim has so thoughtfully prepared. And in a city that often rushes forward, the gentle reminder to pause and observe the tender bonds forming right in front of us may be the most meaningful creation of all.

Should Schools Require Cybersecurity Training For Students?

Should Schools Require Cybersecurity Training For Students?

In today’s digital age, where technology permeates every aspect of our lives, the need for cybersecurity has never been more critical. From personal data protection to safeguarding national security, the challenges posed by cyber threats are ever-evolving. It’s no longer just an issue for tech experts or IT professionals; everyone, including students, needs to be aware of the risks and be equipped with cybersecurity knowledge and skills. The question then arises: Should schools require cybersecurity training for students? In this blog post, we will delve into the importance of cybersecurity education in schools, the benefits it offers, and the potential challenges it may entail.

The Digital World We Live In

Our world today is characterized by digital interconnectedness. We rely on technology for communication, learning, entertainment, and countless other aspects of our daily lives. However, this dependence on technology also exposes us to various cybersecurity threats, ranging from malware and phishing attacks to identity theft and cyberbullying. Students, who are among the most active users of technology, are particularly vulnerable to these threats.

The Need for Cybersecurity Education in Schools

Protecting Personal Information

Students often share personal information online, including on social media platforms. Cybersecurity training can teach them how to safeguard their sensitive data, protecting them from identity theft and fraud.

 

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

Cybersecurity education fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students learn to analyze potential risks, assess the credibility of websites and emails, and make informed decisions online.

 

Career Opportunities

As the demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to rise, students with cybersecurity knowledge have a competitive advantage in the job market. Introducing cybersecurity in schools can help students explore this career path early on.

Responsible Digital Citizenship

Learning about cybersecurity goes hand in hand with responsible digital citizenship. Students understand their ethical responsibilities online, such as respecting privacy and refraining from cyberbullying.

 

Preventing Cyberbullying: Cyberbullying is a significant concern in schools. Cybersecurity training can empower students to protect themselves from online harassment and report incidents effectively.

Benefits of Cybersecurity Training in Schools

 

Introducing cybersecurity training in schools can yield numerous benefits:

 

Early Education: Starting cybersecurity education at a young age ensures that students are well-prepared for the digital challenges they will encounter throughout their lives.

 

Increased Awareness: Students become more aware of the risks and consequences associated with irresponsible online behavior, leading to a safer online environment.

 

Empowerment: Knowledge is empowering. Cybersecurity training equips students with the skills to protect themselves and make informed choices online.

 

Reduced Vulnerability: By educating students about common cyber threats, schools can reduce the likelihood of students falling victim to scams and attacks.

 

Preparedness for the Future: As technology continues to evolve, a foundational understanding of cybersecurity will be invaluable for future generations.

Challenges and Considerations

 

While the idea of implementing cybersecurity training in schools is promising, it is not without challenges:

 

Resource Allocation: Schools already face numerous demands on their resources. Adding cybersecurity education may require additional funding, training for teachers, and the development of curriculum materials.

 

Age-Appropriate Content: Tailoring cybersecurity education to different age groups is essential. Younger students may require a more basic curriculum, while older students can delve into more advanced topics.

 

Teacher Training: Teachers will need proper training to effectively teach cybersecurity. This may involve ongoing professional development to keep up with evolving threats and technologies.

 

Integration into the Curriculum: Finding the right balance between cybersecurity education and the existing curriculum can be a challenge. It’s important not to overload students with too much information.

 

Ensuring Engagement: To be effective, cybersecurity education should be engaging and relatable to students. Gamified programs like Curricula, make cybersecurity training fun and enjoyable. Traditional lectures may not be the most effective approach, and creative teaching methods should be explored.

Implementing Cybersecurity Training in Schools

 

To successfully implement cybersecurity training in schools, a comprehensive approach is necessary:

 

Curriculum Development: Develop age-appropriate curriculum materials that cover essential cybersecurity concepts, from online privacy and password security to recognizing phishing attempts.

 

Teacher Training: Provide teachers with the necessary training and resources to confidently teach cybersecurity. This may involve partnerships with cybersecurity organizations or experts.

 

Interactive Learning: Make cybersecurity education interactive and engaging. Use real-world examples and scenarios to illustrate the importance of cybersecurity.

 

Integration with Existing Subjects: Find ways to integrate cybersecurity concepts into existing subjects like mathematics, science, and ethics, reinforcing their relevance.

 

Parental Involvement: Educate parents about the importance of cybersecurity and provide resources for them to support their children’s online safety.

 

Continuous Evaluation: Regularly assess the effectiveness of the cybersecurity training program and make adjustments as needed.

 

In Summary

In a digital world where the line between the physical and virtual realms is increasingly blurred, cybersecurity education for students is not just an option; it’s a necessity. Schools should take proactive steps to introduce cybersecurity training as part of their curriculum to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to navigate the digital landscape safely. While challenges may exist, the benefits of cybersecurity education far outweigh the difficulties. By fostering a generation of digitally savvy and responsible individuals, we can contribute to a safer and more secure online future for all.

 

Treasury Management Solutions: Bespoke vs. Big Brand 

Treasury Management Solutions: Bespoke vs. Big Brand 

In today’s fast-paced financial landscape, managing a company’s treasury effectively is paramount. Treasury management involves overseeing a company’s financial assets, investments, and liquidity to ensure stability and growth. To accomplish this, businesses have a choice between two primary types of treasury management solutions: bespoke (customized) or big brand (off-the-shelf) options. Each approach has its merits and drawbacks, and choosing the right one can significantly impact a company’s financial success. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of treasury management solutions and explore the key differences between bespoke and big brand offerings.

Bespoke Treasury Management Solutions

Tailored Precision

Bespoke treasury management solutions like Kayenta, are custom-built to meet the specific needs and goals of a particular organization. This level of customization offers several advantages. First and foremost, it ensures that the system aligns perfectly with the company’s unique requirements. This precision can optimize operational efficiency and provide a competitive edge.

Flexibility

One of the standout features of bespoke treasury management solutions is their flexibility. They can be adapted to accommodate changes in an organization’s financial landscape, regulatory requirements, and strategic objectives. This adaptability is especially valuable for businesses operating in dynamic industries or experiencing rapid growth.

Competitive Advantage

A bespoke treasury system can become a source of competitive advantage. By tailoring the solution to match the company’s specific needs, it can unlock efficiencies and insights that are not available through off-the-shelf alternatives. This can be particularly relevant in industries where treasury management can make a significant difference in overall profitability.

Integration

Integration is often smoother with bespoke solutions. Since they are designed from the ground up with the organization’s existing systems and processes in mind, they tend to integrate seamlessly with other financial and operational systems. This can result in a more efficient and streamlined workflow.

 

Cost Considerations

However, bespoke treasury management solutions typically come at a higher initial cost compared to off-the-shelf options. The development, implementation, and ongoing maintenance of a custom solution can be resource-intensive, both in terms of time and money.

Expertise Required

Furthermore, the creation of a bespoke system requires a deep understanding of the company’s treasury processes and the ability to translate those requirements into a functional software solution. This necessitates the involvement of experienced treasury and technology professionals, which can be a challenge for some organizations.

Big Brand Treasury Management Solutions

Convenience

Big brand treasury management solutions are pre-packaged, ready-to-implement software solutions offered by well-established financial technology companies. They are designed to cater to a broad range of businesses, from small enterprises to large corporations. One of their primary advantages is convenience.

Speed of Implementation

Implementing a big brand treasury solution is generally faster compared to developing a bespoke system. Since these solutions are already developed and tested, they can be deployed relatively quickly. This speed can be crucial for businesses looking to address immediate treasury management needs.

Cost-Effective

Big brand solutions are often more cost-effective in the short term, as they eliminate the high upfront development costs associated with bespoke solutions. Many businesses appreciate the predictable pricing models offered by big brand providers.

Compliance and Updates

Big brand solutions often come with built-in compliance features that help organizations adhere to industry regulations and standards. Additionally, these solutions receive regular updates and enhancements from the provider, ensuring that they remain current and secure.

Limited Customization

However, the primary drawback of big brand treasury management solutions is their limited customization. While they can be configured to some extent to fit a company’s needs, they may not fully align with unique processes or strategic goals. This lack of customization can lead to inefficiencies or missed opportunities.

Less Competitive Advantage

Since big brand solutions are widely accessible, they are less likely to provide a significant competitive advantage. While they can improve operational efficiency and compliance, they may not offer the same level of differentiation as a bespoke solution designed specifically for a company’s needs.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing between bespoke and big brand treasury management solutions is a critical decision that should be based on an organization’s unique circumstances, goals, and resources. Here are some key factors to consider when making this choice:

1. Complexity of Treasury Operations

Evaluate the complexity of your treasury operations. If your organization has highly specialized processes or complex financial instruments, a bespoke solution may be the better fit.

2. Budget and Resources

Consider your budget and resource availability. While bespoke solutions can offer significant long-term benefits, they require a substantial upfront investment in terms of time and money. Big brand solutions often provide a more budget-friendly option.

3. Speed of Implementation

Assess the urgency of your treasury management needs. If you need a solution quickly, big brand options can be implemented faster than custom-built systems.

4. Long-Term Strategy

Think about your long-term strategic objectives. If treasury management plays a critical role in your competitive strategy, a bespoke solution may be worth the investment to gain a competitive edge.

5. Regulatory Requirements

Consider regulatory compliance. Big brand solutions often come with compliance features, making them suitable for organizations with strict regulatory requirements. However, if your compliance needs are highly specialized, a bespoke solution may be necessary.

6. Scalability

Examine your growth plans. Bespoke solutions can be designed with scalability in mind, ensuring that they can adapt to your organization’s changing size and needs.

7. Expertise

Assess your in-house expertise. Developing a bespoke treasury management solution requires a deep understanding of treasury processes and software development. If you lack the necessary expertise, partnering with a knowledgeable provider is crucial.

Conclusion

In the world of treasury management solutions, the choice between bespoke and big brand offerings is not a one-size-fits-all decision. Each approach has its strengths and weaknesses, and the right choice depends on an organization’s specific circumstances and priorities. Bespoke solutions offer unparalleled customization and competitive advantage but come with higher costs and resource requirements. Big brand solutions provide convenience and cost-effectiveness but may lack the tailored precision some businesses require. Ultimately, the key is to align your treasury management strategy with your overall business goals and choose the solution that best supports your financial success.

 

Your Wedding Day Hiring Checklist

Your Wedding Day Hiring Checklist

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life. It’s a day that you want to be perfect, and you want to make sure that everything runs smoothly. However, planning a wedding can be overwhelming, and there are so many details to consider. 

One of the most important aspects of your wedding day is hiring the right people to help you make your dream wedding a reality. In this blog post, we will go through your wedding day hiring checklist, detailing who and what extra hands you need to hire for during your wedding day that may not be so obvious.

  1. Wedding Planner

One of the first people you should hire is a wedding planner. A wedding planner can help you with everything from choosing the right venue to hiring the perfect wedding vendors. They can also help you with the logistics of the day, such as making sure everyone is where they need to be and that everything runs smoothly. A wedding planner can help you stay organized and on track throughout the planning process.

  1. Photographer and Videographer

Your wedding day is a day that you will want to remember for the rest of your life, and the best way to do that is by hiring a professional wedding photographer and videographer. These professionals can capture all the special moments of your day, from getting ready in the morning to saying “I do” to dancing the night away. Make sure to do your research and find a photographer and videographer whose style matches your vision for your wedding day.

  1. Catering Company/Private Chefs and Servers

Food is an important aspect of any wedding, and hiring a catering company or private chefs and great servers is essential. The catering company or private chefs can provide you with a menu that fits your tastes and dietary restrictions, and they can also take care of setting up the food and cleaning up afterward. If you are looking for expert private chefs, browse INTUEAT for options near you. Servers can help make sure that everything runs smoothly during the meal, and they can also help with refilling drinks and clearing plates.

  1. Bartenders and Bussers

If you plan on serving alcohol at your wedding, you will need to hire bartenders and bussers. Bartenders can make sure that your guests have delicious drinks to enjoy throughout the night, and bussers can help keep the bar area clean and organized. It’s important to make sure that your bartenders are licensed and insured, and that they know how to handle any potential issues that may arise. Qwick can connect you with talented freelance bartenders and bussers for your wedding reception.

  1. Musicians or DJ

Music is a key element in setting the mood and tone for your wedding day. Whether you prefer a wedding band or a DJ, you’ll want to make sure that you hire professionals who can create the perfect atmosphere for your wedding. Live musicians can add a personal touch to your wedding day, while a DJ can keep the party going all night long. Be sure to ask for references and listen to samples of their work before making a final decision.

  1. Officiant

The officiant is the person who will legally marry you and your partner, so it’s important to find someone who you feel comfortable with and who can help create a meaningful ceremony. This person can be a religious leader, a friend or family member, or a professional officiant. Make sure to meet with them beforehand to go over the details of the ceremony and to make sure that they understand your vision for your wedding day.

  1. Florist and Decorator

Flowers and decor can transform any wedding venue into a magical space that reflects your personal style and taste. A florist can create beautiful bouquets and centerpieces that match your color scheme and overall wedding aesthetic, while a decorator can help set the mood with lighting, draping, and other decorative elements. Make sure to share your vision with them and ask for their professional advice to ensure that everything looks stunning.

  1. Hair and Makeup Artists

On your wedding day, you want to look and feel your best, and that’s where a hair and makeup artist can help. These professionals can create a beautiful, polished look that will make you feel confident and radiant. It’s important to schedule a trial run beforehand to make sure that you are happy with the look and to avoid any last-minute surprises on the day of the wedding.

  1. Transportation

Transportation is an important aspect of your wedding day, especially if your ceremony and reception are in different locations. You’ll want to make sure that you and your wedding party can get to and from each location safely and efficiently. Whether you hire a limousine, a party bus, or another type of transportation, make sure to book it in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.

  1. Day-of Coordinator

Finally, it’s important to have a day-of coordinator who can help make sure that everything runs smoothly on the day of the wedding. A wedding coordinator can take care of any last-minute issues, coordinate with vendors, and make sure that you and your partner have everything you need. Having a day-of coordinator can help you relax and enjoy your wedding day without worrying about any logistical issues.

In conclusion, hiring the right people for your wedding day can make all the difference in creating a beautiful, memorable event for you and your wedding guests. By following this wedding day hiring checklist, you can ensure that you have all the extra hands you need to make your dream wedding a reality. From wedding planners to day-of coordinators, make sure to hire professionals who you feel comfortable with and who can help bring your Big Day’s vision to life.