The Hartz Project is proud to present Sumptuous Nothing, a solo show by British artist Benjamin Levy at KIAF Seoul, Booth A68, Gaia Art Space. The exhibition will be on view from September 3-7, 2025.
Building upon themes from Levy’s previous show in London, Sumptuous Nothing expands its focus to feminine elegance, adding nine new pieces from Levy’s latest suite of works that explore how societal constructs of status and desirability often intertwine with emotional vulnerability, while also sensitively addressing themes of working-class life, status anxiety, and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of social mobility. Sumptuous Nothing invites viewers to engage with the complexities of desire in a contemporary landscape where aspirations are often manipulated, and the objects of our longing are paraded through a relentless stream of imagery. It encapsulates the paradox of extravagance devoid of true meaning, prompting reflection on the nature of wealth and desire.
Levy’s meticulous attention to the tactile qualities of his work and the labor invested in each piece compel us to reflect on our relationship with the pervasive flow of images online. Notably, his paintings often depict solitary figures whose eyes remain obscured. By focusing on objects such as a dazzling Chanel pearl necklace or a tightly clenched fist adorned with a Rolex, viewers are distanced from the wearer's inner experience. This absence of direct connection draws us into scenes of relational dynamics that highlight our inability to engage meaningfully with one another.
Standing among a handful of noteworthy figurative artists today who emerge from working-class backgrounds, Levy confronts the idea that wealth is not a definitive measure but rather a relative concept shaped by desire. This collection of works serves as a poignant reminder that our desires, once fulfilled, may not provide the satisfaction we seek. Each instance of yearning for something beyond our reach ultimately diminishes our sense of self-worth, regardless of our material circumstances. Conversely, consider that every moment of gratitude for what we already possess can cultivate a sense of true wealth—a wealth found in contentment and self-acceptance.
