Sayart.net - ＂Special Tri-place＂ Exhibition Creates Unique Sculptural Spaces at Gallery Soheon

Daegu’s Gallery Soheon presents "Special Tri-place," a sculptural exhibition that transforms the gallery into three distinctive, dramatic spaces curated by prominent Korean sculptors Baek Jin Ki, Mun Min, and Bang In Gyun. Running from October 16 to November 15, 2024, the exhibit offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in unique artistic realms that blend intellectual depth with sensory appeal, perfectly aligning with the reflective autumn season. Each artist’s work occupies a dedicated space, combining to create an overarching harmony that is both visually and conceptually engaging.

Baek Jin Ki’s work, grounded in the timeless art of marble sculpture, brings a sense of metaphysical reflection to the exhibit. Having studied in Carrara, Italy—the global center of marble artistry—Baek draws inspiration from the awe-inspiring marble mountains of Alpi Apuane. His pieces reflect the core elements of nature—light, wind, water, and earth—while conveying a profound sense of transcendence. Through meticulous chiseling and polishing, Baek’s sculptures invite viewers to feel the vitality and permanence within the stone, expressing both the elemental power and sublime beauty of nature. His abstract forms, etched with infinite patterns and textures, represent the eternal cycle of life, offering viewers a meditative experience of existence and unity. Baek’s sculptures have also been prominently displayed in high-end public spaces such as the Shangri-La Hotel in Shanghai, the Sofitel Ambassador, and Lotte Hotels in Seoul and Jeju.

Mun Min explores the theme of communication and isolation within the modern, structured spaces of contemporary society. Through minimalistic figures and rigid geometric frames, Mun symbolically addresses the disconnection and loneliness often experienced in today’s urban environments. His figures, stripped of facial features and placed within confined spaces, represent every individual navigating life’s uncertainties. The interplay of horizontal and vertical shapes within these frames evokes a sense of endless patience and resilience, reflecting the human condition’s perpetual push against boundaries. Mun’s minimalist approach to sculpture, defined by restrained color palettes and shapes, embodies both sensitivity and solitude, challenging viewers to reflect on the complex web of relationships in society. Educated at Chonbuk National University, Mun is an active participant in exhibitions across Korea, including the Jeonbuk Provincial Museum of Art.

Bang In Gyun introduces a playful and vibrant element to the exhibition with his “Beads Maze” and cake-inspired sculptures. Using primary shapes such as spheres, cubes, and cylinders, Bang creates colorful, bead-like structures that bring to mind cherished memories of childhood toys. His whimsical, candy-colored creations evoke both familiarity and joy, allowing viewers to engage with his work on an emotional level. Inspired by the innocence of a child’s imagination, Bang simplifies and abstracts form, focusing on the exterior rather than intricate details. This approach fosters an open-ended interpretation, encouraging viewers to rediscover the sense of wonder associated with play. A graduate of Chung-Ang University, Bang’s work is featured in educational institutions for its positive impact on IQ and emotional intelligence (EQ) development, and he frequently participates in public art projects aimed at engaging broader audiences.

"Special Tri-place" is a departure from traditional group exhibitions. Instead of blending works within a single space, each artist curates a specific area, resulting in three distinct environments that together form a harmonious whole. The white-cube gallery setup at Gallery Soheon allows each sculptor’s vision to fully unfold, with free-standing sculptures arranged on walls and floors, creating immersive individual “places” that interconnect to enhance the viewer’s experience.

According to Gallery Soheon, the exhibition is designed to provide a new approach to experiencing sculpture, as each space reflects the artist's unique style while contributing to an overarching harmony that draws visitors deeper into the sensory and intellectual aspects of the works. “Special Tri-place” serves as a metaphorical gateway into diverse perceptions of reality, inviting the audience to contemplate both the artists' inner worlds and their interpretations.

The exhibition, located in Daegu’s Dongsung-ro area at Gallery Soheon & Soheon Contemporary, runs until November 15, 2024. By bridging individual artistic expressions and collective harmony, “Special Tri-place” offers visitors a transformative experience that resonates with the depth of autumn, appealing to both the intellect and the senses.

Sayart / Jason Yim, yimjongho1969@gmail.com