Artist Ema Shin is from a Korean family who immigrated to Japan in the 1930s. Born and raised in Japan, she moved to Australia in 2010. As part of a Korean tradition, Shin’s male family members keep a book illustrating their family tree. Shin’s family tree spans 32 generations, yet only the linage of sons is featured. All daughters are absent.

This solo exhibition by Ema Shin celebrates the efforts and creativity that have gone unrecognised. Her work is influenced by anatomy and botanical forms. She sees these as symbols of life and emotion. Shin highlights the cultural diversity of women living in Australia, drawing attention to their experiences with family and social expectations. She celebrates their resilience and achievements.

Hearts of Absent Women includes soft embroidered sculptures, handwoven tapestry, and installations. The works in this exhibition have been made over the course of thirteen years, which is how long Shin has lived in Australia.