Amid the ongoing political protests surrounding calls for impeachment, students from Ewha Womans University have drawn attention with a thought-provoking art installation. Using discarded placards and pamphlets collected from rally sites, a group of five Fine Arts students crafted a collage in the likeness of President Yoon Suk Yeol, aiming to reflect both the intensity of civic unrest and the collective spirit of resistance.

The artwork, prominently displayed at the university’s main gate, merges fragments of protest signs bearing words such as “Impeachment” and “Democracy” with newspaper clippings. From a distance, the collage appears as a portrait of the president, but closer inspection reveals layers of messages left by citizens expressing frustration and hope.

The students currently studying Western Painting noted that the project was born out of an impromptu idea during a protest they attended near the National Assembly. They decided to repurpose discarded protest materials into an art piece symbolizing the sentiments of those advocating for change.

One of the students explained that the piece took three days to complete, with sessions stretching late into the night during their exam period. The group shared a desire to create something meaningful that resonated with the current political climate while showcasing the enduring efforts of civic engagement.

“It’s not just about one political figure,” a team member remarked. “We wanted to highlight the resilience and determination of those who came together for a cause. The layers in the collage represent the voices and struggles that form the foundation of our democracy.”

The installation has sparked dialogue on campus, with students stopping to add notes and comments on adjacent boards. Many shared their reflections on the political turmoil and their hopes for the future of democratic values.

“I wasn’t sure if my voice mattered,” said a sophomore who contributed a note. “But seeing others express themselves gave me the courage to join the conversation.”

This project at Ewha Womans University is part of a broader wave of student activism across South Korea. At Seoul National University, a documentary film project titled To Yoon Suk Yeol, From Your Juniors has drawn attention. The project invites students to candidly share their thoughts on the president, who is an alumnus of the university. Similarly, at the Seoul Institute of the Arts, students issued a public declaration under the banner “Artists will not remain silent!”

The diversity of responses, ranging from art installations to films and public statements, underscores the role of young people in shaping the national discourse. Contrary to the stereotype of political apathy among youth, these actions demonstrate a deep awareness and a willingness to engage creatively with pressing issues.

The collage at Ewha Womans University, in particular, stands as a testament to the power of art to provoke thought and foster dialogue. Through their work, the students have captured a moment in history, turning discarded materials into a poignant reminder of the collective effort required to uphold democratic values.

Sayart / Maria Kim, sayart2022@gmail.com