GROUP EXHIBITION: Asian Art on Paper
GALLERY EXHIBITION | Namuso Gallery is pleased to present "Asian Art on Paper, a group exhibition that showcases the diverse and rich traditions of paper-based art from Asia, with a focus on Korean artists. This exhibition highlights the delicate yet powerful medium of paper, which serves as a vehicle for storytelling, cultural expression, and artistic innovation.
In Asia, paper has been a vital medium for artistic expression for centuries, deeply rooted in cultural and artistic traditions. From calligraphy and painting to craftwork, paper has played a significant role in the region’s art history. Its delicate yet versatile nature allows artists to explore themes of nature, memory, and human experience. Unlike in the West, where paper was often used as a secondary medium for sketches and drafts, in Asia, paper is integral to the artwork itself. Korean hanji and Japanese washi, for example, are not just materials but cultural treasures, with their texture and form central to the creative process. In Western art, paper was historically seen as a support for preliminary work, with more durable materials like canvas or metal often preferred for finished pieces. However, in modern times, paper's importance has grown, with artists increasingly experimenting with its textures and colors. This has led to the rise of paper sculptures and mixed-media works, expanding the artistic possibilities of this medium.
Haru K reinterprets traditional Asian painting techniques through a modern lens, merging surreal landscapes with elements of material culture. His works, characterized by the symbolic use of food and nature, explore themes of cultural coexistence, presenting surreal utopias where tradition and innovation collide.
Hoyoon Shin’s paper sculptures are feats of engineering and storytelling, using delicate layers to craft works that explore impermanence, transparency, and societal narratives. His meticulous process transforms paper into a medium of dimensionality and depth, offering a reflective commentary on human existence.
Suyeon Kwak draws from traditional Korean painting techniques to create intricate and symbolic works that explore the connection between humans and animals. Her art often features anthropomorphized animals, such as dogs, depicted with humor and deep cultural significance.
Seongnyo Lyoo’s artworks reflect her deep engagement with Korean traditions, blending ancient techniques with contemporary themes. Her vibrant pieces, characterized by their textured surfaces and bold narratives, challenge the boundaries of paper as a static medium, transforming it into a dynamic canvas of cultural dialogue.
"Asian Art on Paper: Traditions and Innovations" invites viewers to explore the ongoing significance of paper in contemporary Korean art, where tradition meets innovation.
