The portrait of Chung Chang Sup, Courtesy of Johyun Gallery
Johyun Gallery in Seoul is set to host a significant dual exhibition featuring two of Korea’s most distinguished artists, Chung Chang Sup (1927–2011) and Kwon Dae Sup (b.1952), from March 6 to April 20, 2025. This exhibition brings together two masters who, while working in different mediums, share a profound engagement with traditional Korean materials and aesthetics.
Chung Chang Sup, a first-generation figure in post-war Korean contemporary art, is best known for his monochrome paintings incorporating Hanji (traditional Korean mulberry paper). Having transitioned from the Informel and Monochrome movements, he developed a distinctive artistic language that explores the relationship between materiality and spirituality. His seminal series, "Tak" (楮) and "Meditation" (默考), embody his lifelong pursuit of harmony between tradition and modernity, the East and the West, and the tangible and the intangible.
On the other hand, Kwon Dae Sup has gained international recognition for his white porcelain (Baekja) works inspired by Joseon-era moon jars (Dalhangari). Unlike conventional reproductions, Kwon’s ceramic works reinterpret historical forms through a contemporary lens. His moon jars, subtly imperfect in shape yet balanced, reject symmetry while maintaining a sense of stability and serenity. His nuanced approach to surface textures, alternating between smooth and matte finishes, further distinguishes his work from traditional pieces.
While working in different disciplines—painting, and ceramics—both artists emphasize meditative processes and materiality. Chung’s Hanji-based paintings resonate with the essence of nature, while Kwon’s porcelain work echoes the craftsmanship of Joseon-era potters. Their shared commitment to Korean identity and artistic introspection makes this exhibition an insightful dialogue between two different yet complementary artistic practices.
The portrait of Kwon Dae Sup, Courtesy of Johyun Gallery
Chung Chang Sup’s legacy extends beyond his artistic contributions. As a professor at Seoul National University, he played a pivotal role in shaping Korean modern art. His works have been showcased in international exhibitions, including the Paris Biennale (1961) and São Paulo Biennial (1965). Today, his pieces are held in prestigious institutions such as the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul Museum of Art, Leeum Samsung Museum, and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
Kwon Dae Sup’s works have been exhibited globally, with solo exhibitions at Axel Vervoordt Gallery (Belgium), Seomi & Tuus Gallery (Korea), and Park Ryu Sook Gallery (Korea). His pieces are housed in major museum collections, including the Guimet Museum (France), the Art Institute of Chicago (USA), and the Korean Folk Museum (Korea).
The poster of the exhibition, Courtesy of Johyun Gallery
This exhibition at Johyun Gallery offers a rare opportunity to experience the works of two masters side by side, illustrating how historical Korean materials—Hanji and porcelain—continue to inspire contemporary artistic expression. As Korea’s art scene gains increasing global recognition, this exhibition highlights the deep philosophical and material connections between past and present.
With its exploration of Korean artistic heritage through modern interpretations, the Chung Chang Sup and Kwon Dae Sup exhibition promises to be a compelling experience for both art collectors and cultural scholars alike.
Sayart / Maria Kim, sayart2022@gmail.com
The portrait of Chung Chang Sup, Courtesy of Johyun Gallery
Johyun Gallery in Seoul is set to host a significant dual exhibition featuring two of Korea’s most distinguished artists, Chung Chang Sup (1927–2011) and Kwon Dae Sup (b.1952), from March 6 to April 20, 2025. This exhibition brings together two masters who, while working in different mediums, share a profound engagement with traditional Korean materials and aesthetics.
Chung Chang Sup, a first-generation figure in post-war Korean contemporary art, is best known for his monochrome paintings incorporating Hanji (traditional Korean mulberry paper). Having transitioned from the Informel and Monochrome movements, he developed a distinctive artistic language that explores the relationship between materiality and spirituality. His seminal series, "Tak" (楮) and "Meditation" (默考), embody his lifelong pursuit of harmony between tradition and modernity, the East and the West, and the tangible and the intangible.
On the other hand, Kwon Dae Sup has gained international recognition for his white porcelain (Baekja) works inspired by Joseon-era moon jars (Dalhangari). Unlike conventional reproductions, Kwon’s ceramic works reinterpret historical forms through a contemporary lens. His moon jars, subtly imperfect in shape yet balanced, reject symmetry while maintaining a sense of stability and serenity. His nuanced approach to surface textures, alternating between smooth and matte finishes, further distinguishes his work from traditional pieces.
While working in different disciplines—painting, and ceramics—both artists emphasize meditative processes and materiality. Chung’s Hanji-based paintings resonate with the essence of nature, while Kwon’s porcelain work echoes the craftsmanship of Joseon-era potters. Their shared commitment to Korean identity and artistic introspection makes this exhibition an insightful dialogue between two different yet complementary artistic practices.
The portrait of Kwon Dae Sup, Courtesy of Johyun Gallery
Chung Chang Sup’s legacy extends beyond his artistic contributions. As a professor at Seoul National University, he played a pivotal role in shaping Korean modern art. His works have been showcased in international exhibitions, including the Paris Biennale (1961) and São Paulo Biennial (1965). Today, his pieces are held in prestigious institutions such as the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul Museum of Art, Leeum Samsung Museum, and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
Kwon Dae Sup’s works have been exhibited globally, with solo exhibitions at Axel Vervoordt Gallery (Belgium), Seomi & Tuus Gallery (Korea), and Park Ryu Sook Gallery (Korea). His pieces are housed in major museum collections, including the Guimet Museum (France), the Art Institute of Chicago (USA), and the Korean Folk Museum (Korea).
The poster of the exhibition, Courtesy of Johyun Gallery
This exhibition at Johyun Gallery offers a rare opportunity to experience the works of two masters side by side, illustrating how historical Korean materials—Hanji and porcelain—continue to inspire contemporary artistic expression. As Korea’s art scene gains increasing global recognition, this exhibition highlights the deep philosophical and material connections between past and present.
With its exploration of Korean artistic heritage through modern interpretations, the Chung Chang Sup and Kwon Dae Sup exhibition promises to be a compelling experience for both art collectors and cultural scholars alike.
