The installation view of the exhibition, Courtesy of Art SoHyang
Art SoHyang in Busan presents “Here,” a solo exhibition by Kwon Soon ik, from November 2 to November 30, 2024. Renowned for his innovative use of traditional Korean colors within a modern, abstract framework, Kwon Soon ik continues to garner attention both domestically and internationally. This exhibition, marking his fourth solo showcase at Art SoHyang, follows his 2013 inaugural show at the gallery, “Absence of Ego.” It signifies not only the evolution of Kwon’s style but also his ongoing exploration of abstract forms and their relationship to Korean identity and temporal shifts.
The exhibition title “Here” alludes to a convergence of time and place—simultaneously capturing the past, present, and future. For Kwon, “here” represents a conceptual space that transcends mere location. The phrase "It started from here" suggests a cyclical journey, one that connects past inspiration with present expression and future potential. Through his new works, Kwon delves into this multi-layered temporal perspective, offering viewers a unique opportunity to contemplate both tangible and intangible aspects of existence.
The installation view of the exhibition, Courtesy of Art SoHyang
Kwon's journey through abstraction has led him to explore different elements, from coal dust and reflections on water in his earlier “Absence of Ego” series to the vibrant planes of color in “Pile up & Rub.” Each series acts as a milestone in his artistic exploration of self and society, expressed through minimalist yet evocative imagery.
The “Line” series, showcased in “Here,” represents a shift from Kwon’s previous work, presenting lines and forms that flow freely without heavy philosophical concepts. This departure highlights a newfound emphasis on the movement and fluidity of lines as they traverse space and time.
The installation view of the exhibition, Courtesy of Art SoHyang
In addition to the “Line” series, Kwon’s work in “Here” includes installation pieces using traditional Korean roof tiles, a nod to heritage and history. These installations bridge the ancient and the modern, connecting Korean architectural elements with Kwon's abstract vision. The fusion of roof tiles with contemporary forms invites viewers to reflect on the juxtaposition of the familiar and the foreign, the past and the present.
One notable piece, “Snail’s Slumber,” employs his studio as a backdrop, symbolizing a fusion of personal and artistic identity. By including scenes of artists, photographers, and spectators within the artwork itself, Kwon captures the act of artistic creation and observation, blurring the lines between artist and viewer.
The installation view of the exhibition, Courtesy of Art SoHyang
“Here” is a poignant reflection on Kwon’s 10-year journey as an abstract artist, a path marked by continuous transformation and introspection. The exhibition encapsulates a pivotal moment in Kwon’s career, where abstraction becomes a bridge to both self-discovery and audience engagement. For Kwon, this exhibition is a meditation on identity, grounded in Korean culture yet unbound by its constraints, inviting viewers to embark on a contemplative journey alongside him.
This exhibition, at the intersection of culture and abstraction, offers an immersive experience that celebrates the resilience of tradition and the fluidity of self-expression. As Kwon notes, it is “from here” that the journey begins anew—a continual exploration of identity, belonging, and the timeless beauty of Korean art.
The installation view of the exhibition, Courtesy of Art SoHyang
Sayart / Maria Kim, sayart2022@gmail.com
The installation view of the exhibition, Courtesy of Art SoHyang
Art SoHyang in Busan presents “Here,” a solo exhibition by Kwon Soon ik, from November 2 to November 30, 2024. Renowned for his innovative use of traditional Korean colors within a modern, abstract framework, Kwon Soon ik continues to garner attention both domestically and internationally. This exhibition, marking his fourth solo showcase at Art SoHyang, follows his 2013 inaugural show at the gallery, “Absence of Ego.” It signifies not only the evolution of Kwon’s style but also his ongoing exploration of abstract forms and their relationship to Korean identity and temporal shifts.
The exhibition title “Here” alludes to a convergence of time and place—simultaneously capturing the past, present, and future. For Kwon, “here” represents a conceptual space that transcends mere location. The phrase "It started from here" suggests a cyclical journey, one that connects past inspiration with present expression and future potential. Through his new works, Kwon delves into this multi-layered temporal perspective, offering viewers a unique opportunity to contemplate both tangible and intangible aspects of existence.
The installation view of the exhibition, Courtesy of Art SoHyang
Kwon's journey through abstraction has led him to explore different elements, from coal dust and reflections on water in his earlier “Absence of Ego” series to the vibrant planes of color in “Pile up & Rub.” Each series acts as a milestone in his artistic exploration of self and society, expressed through minimalist yet evocative imagery.
The “Line” series, showcased in “Here,” represents a shift from Kwon’s previous work, presenting lines and forms that flow freely without heavy philosophical concepts. This departure highlights a newfound emphasis on the movement and fluidity of lines as they traverse space and time.
The installation view of the exhibition, Courtesy of Art SoHyang
In addition to the “Line” series, Kwon’s work in “Here” includes installation pieces using traditional Korean roof tiles, a nod to heritage and history. These installations bridge the ancient and the modern, connecting Korean architectural elements with Kwon's abstract vision. The fusion of roof tiles with contemporary forms invites viewers to reflect on the juxtaposition of the familiar and the foreign, the past and the present.
One notable piece, “Snail’s Slumber,” employs his studio as a backdrop, symbolizing a fusion of personal and artistic identity. By including scenes of artists, photographers, and spectators within the artwork itself, Kwon captures the act of artistic creation and observation, blurring the lines between artist and viewer.
The installation view of the exhibition, Courtesy of Art SoHyang
“Here” is a poignant reflection on Kwon’s 10-year journey as an abstract artist, a path marked by continuous transformation and introspection. The exhibition encapsulates a pivotal moment in Kwon’s career, where abstraction becomes a bridge to both self-discovery and audience engagement. For Kwon, this exhibition is a meditation on identity, grounded in Korean culture yet unbound by its constraints, inviting viewers to embark on a contemplative journey alongside him.
This exhibition, at the intersection of culture and abstraction, offers an immersive experience that celebrates the resilience of tradition and the fluidity of self-expression. As Kwon notes, it is “from here” that the journey begins anew—a continual exploration of identity, belonging, and the timeless beauty of Korean art.
The installation view of the exhibition, Courtesy of Art SoHyang
