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The Korean Cultural Center New York (KCCNY), a part of the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of the Republic of Korea, is excited to announce the upcoming “Whanki in New York” exhibition, running from May 2 to June 13, 2024. This exhibition pays tribute to the impactful era of celebrated abstract artist Kim Whanki (1913-1974), showcasing his artistic evolution during his significant time in New York. It celebrates his lasting impact on contemporary art, marking 50 years since his passing.
“Whanki in New York” holds great importance, showcasing not just 27 original artworks on loan from Seoul’s Whanki Museum but also unveiling private collections belonging to Kim and his associates. his wife’s acquaintances in New York for the first time. Additionally, LG Electronics will showcase five digital artworks that reimagine Kim’s creative world using advanced technology. These innovative pieces, created by emerging media artists using LG OLED screens, include significant works from Kim’s New York era in the 1970s.
“The KCCNY is excited to collaborate with the Whanki Museum and LG Electronics to bring Kim Whanki’s significant works to New York. Since our founding in 1979, we’ve been committed to promoting Korean culture and art in New York. This exhibition not only celebrates Kim’s critical New York era but also includes rare personal artifacts, contributed by the Korean American community. Our event shines a fresh light on his legacy, fostering cultural connections across generations,” says Michael Cheonsoo Kim, Executive Director of the Korean Cultural Center New York.
The Continuous Artistic Evolution of Kim Whanki through Infinite Experimentation
Kim’s artistic journey unfolds vividly through the diverse settings that influenced his development and unique style. It commenced in Tokyo during the 1930s (1933-1937), where he immersed himself in a milieu teeming with academic pursuits and artistic exploration. Upon returning to Korea, he emerged as a prominent figure in Seoul’s dynamic art scene from 1937 to 1956, co-founding the ‘Shinsasilpa (New Realism Group)’ alongside fellow artist Yoo YoungKuk. His artistic narrative then progressed to Paris from 1956 to 1959, where he refined his distinct artistic identity. However, it was his tenure in New York from 1963 to 1974 that marked the zenith of his artistic expressions, epitomized by the iconic “all-over dot paintings.”
This exhibition delves deeply into Kim’s New York period, not only showcasing his artworks but also presenting personal items like diaries, photographs, and letters that offer insights into his creative process. Focusing particularly on his works on paper—selected by the Whanki Museum as representative of his artistic breadth—the exhibit underscores how his technique evolved. Starting in the early 1960s with gouache depictions of mountains and the moon, he transitioned to experimenting with oil paints by the late 1960s, crafting intricate dot patterns on diverse mediums such as the New York Times and traditional Korean hanji paper. These works underscore his commitment to media experimentation and the meticulous efforts that defined his artistic legacy.
Meeting Kim Whanki in New York after Five Decades
This retrospective is a poignant reminder of Kim’s legacy as a pioneering figure in Korean abstract art, reconnecting audiences with his impact fifty years after his time in New York. During this transformative era, he deliberately distanced himself from traditional norms and immersed himself fully in a vibrant creative environment. His move to New York marked a significant turning point, allowing him to rediscover the core of his artistic expression and establish a distinct yet universally resonant artistic vision.
Echoing Kim’s own sentiments, as recorded in his diary on July 2, 1968, this exhibition encourages viewers to approach his art with fresh perspectives: “An artist must always be cautious of conventional perspectives. One should always come to their work with a fresh perspective, as though encountering it for the very first time. The KCCNY encourages audiences to delve into the lasting influence of his work artistic spirit and revisit his contributions to the art world, contemplating the timeless essence of his creations and their lasting influence.
The post The Korean Cultural Center New York Honors Kim Whanki’s Artistic Vision with Whanki in New York Exhibition appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
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