Jeon Yonghwan, Kim Jeongseon, and Choi Eunjeoung among the Notable Figures at the Premier Art Fair in Seoul

The photo above is of Lee Kwang-gi, a famous Korean actor and artist. Photo by Sims Green

Produced by Maria Kim

Amidst the bustling atmosphere of The Galleries Art Fair 2023, a renowned art fair in Korea, famous celebrities and prominent artists gathered at COEX in Samseong-dong, Seoul. The event, which features 10,000 works by 900 artists carefully selected by 156 galleries, has drawn attention from art enthusiasts and collectors alike. SayArt, a prominent art media outlet, had the opportunity to interview notable figures in the Korean art world during the VIP day on the 12th. 

▲ The Galleries Art Fair 2023, Photo by Sims GreenOne of the prominent personalities present at the fair was Lee Kwang-gi, a renowned Korean actor, and artist, who has a significant influence on the local art scene. In his interview with SayArt, Lee Kwang-gi expressed his hope that The Galleries Art Fair would serve as a new beginning for Korean art to be appreciated internationally. He commended the talent and enthusiasm of the artists showcased at the fair, and urged the public to show support and love for the event.

▲ sculptor Jeon Yonghwan, Photo by Sims GreenAmong the artists present at the fair, sculptor Jeon Yonghwan caught attention with his unique work titled "TRANSFORMING CYCLE" exhibited at Gallery BAKYOUNG's booth. Jeon Yonghwan, known for his apple-themed sculptures, shared that he incorporated a butterfly motif symbolically for an aesthetic effect in this particular work. In the Korean art world, he is often humorously referred to as having "Cézanne's apologies, Steve Jobs' apologies, and Korean Jeon Yong-hwan's apologies" due to his distinctive style and reputation.

▲ Painter Kim Jeongseon, Photo by Sims GreenAt Gallery Yoon's booth, artist Kim Jeongseon, who holds an M.F.A degree from the Graduate School of Fine Art at Chosun University, showcased her artwork titled "Magic Garden Door." Kim Jeongseon, who has participated in various international art fairs, shared that her artwork was inspired by the concept of a door always waiting for her whenever she enters a new space, hence the name "Magic Garden Door."

▲ Sculptor Choi Eunjeoung, Photo by Sims GreenSculptor Choi Eunjeoung, who tells stories of hope through the light in her artwork, exhibited a sculpture based on the theme of "Sunset Glow" at GALLERY BAKYOUNG's booth. Choi Eunjeoung captured the narrative of the sun always rising again despite setting, portrayed through the warm hues of a sunset glow in her artwork.

The Galleries Art Fair 2023, with its diverse collection of artworks and notable participants, will continue until the 16th of April, offering a unique and vibrant experience for art enthusiasts and collectors alike. The fair not only celebrates Korean art, but also provides a platform for local artists to showcase their talent and gain recognition internationally.

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Maria Kim sayart2022@gmail.com