In a newly built San Francisco home, a long, light-filled entryway presented an opportunity to create a moment of quiet impact—something both contemplative and visually compelling. From the outset, it was envisioned as a space for a paired installation—one that would unfold over time.
We first acquired a work by Bumin Kim with the intention of commissioning a complementary piece specifically for this wall. This approach allowed the initial work to inform the second, creating a dialogue between the two that feels both considered and deeply connected to the home's architecture.
The decision to stack the works vertically was integral to the design. The composition draws the eye upward, echoing the stairwell's graceful lines and extending the visual rhythm of the entryway. The result is a bold yet serene presence—one that anchors the space without overwhelming it.
Kim’s practice reimagines the language of painting through her innovative use of thread and string. Rather than relying on traditional brushstrokes, she constructs her compositions through the meticulous placement of fine, linear elements. These strands function as both line and gesture, introducing a delicate tension between precision and fluidity.
In her hands, the surface is liberated from flatness. It subtly moves into three-dimensional space, catching light and shifting as one passes by. There is a quiet energy embedded within each piece—structured yet ephemeral—inviting a closer, more contemplative viewing.
The nuanced gradients and vertical rhythms of color bring a modern sensibility to the home while maintaining softness and restraint. Together, the two works create a visual conversation—one that enhances the architectural flow of the entryway and offers a moment of pause within a transitional space.
Collaborating with Bumin Kim and Karen Imperial on this commission was a true pleasure. From the beginning, the vision was clear: to create a cohesive installation that reflects both innovation and tranquility. The result is a pairing that feels intentional, balanced, and quietly transformative.
Photographs by Heidi Lancaster Photography