transcendence: modernity and beyond in korean art

‘the pot’ by cheong kwang ho, copper wire, 2008 image © designboom

transcendence: modernity and beyond in korean art at the singapore art museum 8th november 2008- 15th march 2009 http://www.singart.com

between transcendence and tradition contemporary korean art is revelation of unique aesthetics and sensibilities. when seen from a broad perspective, modern korean art may appear to be oscillating between two seemingly divergent approaches. on one hand, there seems to be an effort to transcend traditional forms. yet, on the other hand, many artists have been trying to rediscover the spirit of traditional art.

the last six decades have seen great economic, social and political changes in south korea. artists have responded to these changes with a diversity of approaches. using a variety of media, from ink and oil painting to installation and new media art, many korean artists in the region and abroad are grappling with what it means to be korean in an age of globalization and trans- nationalism. the exhibition examines the development of korean art over the last five decades through over 40 works by 12 artists.

designboom has visited the exhibition on 14th march, 09. see a designboom collection of images from the exhibition.

detail of ‘the pot’ by cheong kwang ho image © designboom

‘the flower’ by cheong kwang ho, copper wire, 2008 image © designboom

detail of ‘the flower’ by cheong kwang ho image © designboom

‘new mook jook do ll’ video installation by lee lee nam, lcd monitor, 2008 image © designboom

‘new mook jook do ll’ video installation by lee lee nam, lcd monitor, 2008 image © designboom

‘from line’ by lee ufan, oil on canvas, 1974 image © designboom

detail of ‘from line’ by lee ufan, 1974 image © designboomthe complete photo collection report

here