Happy Cat (2014) re-contextualizes the Maneki-neko figurine (Beckoning Cat) often found in Japanese merchant and restaurant spaces. The figurine’s genesis is disputed in folklore, but its relationship to wealth, fortune and luck is certain.
Sean Shim-Boyle (born 1986) lives and works in Los Angeles. He received his MFA (in sculpture) from UCLA in 2012 and his BFA from the California Institute of the Arts in 2008. Solo exhibitions include: A Rising Tide Lifts All Boats for LAXART (Los Angeles, 2013); and Salt House, Project Row Houses (Houston, 2013).
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