The whispers of bygone time explores memory and dreams through poetic illustrations that invite viewers into an imagined forest of forgotten emotions and quiet self-reflection.

During the process of creating, I often experience periods of uncertainty and creative lows, which lead me to think, imagine, and sometimes enter strange and fantastical dreams. Within these dreams, I gradually discover images that resonate with me, and these images have become the starting point for this series.

The whispers of bygone time explores my journey of searching for direction in life. The white dog that appears throughout the works represents my inner self, while the young girl represents my outward self. I hope that these two versions of myself can throughout the journey of life, discover something they both long for and continue moving forward with determination. There are times when they may become lost and find themselves separated, but eventually, they will always meet again.

I chose to incorporate gold leaf into these works because I wanted these memories to take on a golden, luminous quality. At the same time, this exhibition has given me an opportunity to experiment with new materials and ways of making. For me, creating something new is itself an essential part of the journey.

This exhibition includes two series of The whispers of bygone time: The whispers of bygone time I is rooted primarily in inner imagination and dreams, transforming these imagined fragments into visual works. In contrast, The whispers of bygone time II records my experience of actually travelling to Scotland, a country I had never visited before, yet one filled with a sense of fantasy and wonder. After exploring its landscapes, landmarks, and architecture, I combined these firsthand experiences with my own imagination of Scotland to develop a new body of work.

Sophia Ji’s practice is rooted in illustration, but she approaches each image as a space for quiet reflection rather than explanation. Her visual language combines delicate linework with rich textures and symbolic imagery, creating scenes that feel both intimate and mysterious. Animals, forests, and recurring motifs become emotional metaphors rather than literal subjects.