SEOUL SayArt –Renowned Korean artist Lee Taeryang has been holding the exhibition 'Chaotic Literality' at J.94 Gallery in Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu since September 13th. Those familiar with his Propositional Form series will recognize this exhibition as a continuation of Lee's deep dive into the realm of thoughts and feelings that defy the standard confines. 

▲ untitled_oil on canvas_162.2 × 130.3cm_2023, Courtesy of Lee Taeyang.

At the heart of Lee's work is his belief that propositions—clear-cut statements defined as true or false—are merely the starting points. They serve to propel the observer into a realm of emotions and thoughts beyond such basic definitions. While philosophy, science, and ethics might aim to categorize and define these propositions, Lee contends that the true indefinable essence is best expressed through the medium of art.

▲ Propositional Form_oil and mixed media on canvas_90.9 × 72.7cm_2023, Courtesy of Lee Taeyang.

Lee once mused about his artwork, saying, "My paintings are not important. What is important is everything outside of my paintings." This sentiment underscores his belief in the limitations of conventional artistic expression to capture a vast, more elusive reality. To Lee, paintings are both a testament to this curiosity and an acknowledgment of the boundaries of artistic expression.

▲ Artist Lee Taeyang, Courtesy of Lee Taeyang.

Central to the "Chaotic Literality" exhibition are 12 pieces from the Propositional Form series, accompanied by six self-portraits and three untitled artworks bearing semblance to portraits. Although these latter pieces lean toward a more defined form compared to his previous abstract endeavors, they persist in challenging the observer. They reinterpret familiar human silhouettes in unconventional and thought-provoking ways.

▲ Self-portrait_oil on canvas_90.9 × 72.7cm_2023, Courtesy of Lee Taeyang. In her critique titled "Signs that are wasted without meaning," art critic Seonyoung Lee provided a profound insight into Lee's artistry. She noted, "In the case of Lee Tae-ryang, the audience is confronted with the conundrum that the work's purpose isn't immediately evident, but rather hidden behind layers." Her words aptly highlight the inherent duality in Lee's work: the very frameworks that delineate his art also empower its boundless freedom.

For those keen to immerse themselves in a blend of tradition and innovation in art, "Chaotic Literality" will be showcased at the J.94 Gallery until October 12th.

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Maria Kim, sayart2022@gmail.com