The Kim Tschang Yeul Art Museum in Jeju is hosting a deeply introspective exhibition titled Two Breaths, featuring the works of Kwon Young Woo and Kim Tschang Yeul. Running until December 1, 2024, this showcase invites viewers to experience nature through two distinct yet harmonious artistic perspectives, exploring both the tangible and ephemeral aspects of the natural world.

Kwon Young Woo, a master of hanji (Korean traditional paper), integrates the raw qualities of natural materials into his works. His unique process involves cutting, tearing, and layering hanji, emphasizing its tactile qualities and organic textures. For Kwon, nature’s essence is best captured through direct interaction with its materials, resulting in abstract compositions that evoke harmony and the dynamism of nature’s forces.

Kim Tschang Yeul, in contrast, is celebrated for his serene water droplet paintings that capture the fleeting beauty of life. His meticulous depiction of water droplets on untreated canvases explores themes of transience, memory, and the cyclical nature of existence. For Kim, the act of painting these droplets serves as a means of personal healing, transforming inner struggles into a visual symbol of calm and continuity.

This exhibition emphasizes the contrasting philosophies of each artist while showcasing how their interpretations complement each other. Kwon’s work grounds the viewer in the physicality of nature, while Kim’s ethereal paintings invite reflection on its more spiritual aspects. Together, they create a balanced perspective on nature’s many dimensions.

One of the exhibition’s highlights includes Kwon’s works from his Paris period, where he experimented with hanji’s potential. Through layered compositions, he presents a harmonious blend of Eastern and Western techniques, creating a unique language that transcends cultural boundaries. This series exemplifies Kwon’s dedication to exploring nature through the interplay of texture and form.

Kim’s water droplets, on the other hand, symbolize life’s fragility and beauty. His works focus on the delicate interplay of light and shadow within each droplet, inviting viewers to appreciate the transient moments in life. By capturing these moments, Kim’s work provides a meditative space that encourages viewers to find beauty in simplicity and ephemerality.

The museum’s curators aim for Two Breaths to evoke a sense of tranquility and introspection in its visitors. Through the works of these two renowned artists, the exhibition offers a rare opportunity to engage deeply with the philosophical reflections that nature inspires, seen through the complementary approaches of Kwon and Kim.

Both artists share a profound respect for nature, but their approaches diverge in fascinating ways. Kwon’s works emphasize the sensory experience of natural materials, while Kim’s focus on spirituality offers viewers a sense of peace and continuity. Together, they present a comprehensive view of nature that is both visceral and contemplative.

Ultimately, Two Breaths is more than an art exhibition; it is an invitation to explore the inherent beauty of nature from diverse perspectives. Visitors are encouraged to rediscover nature’s essence through the unique artistic journeys of Kwon Young Woo and Kim Tschang Yeul, finding both visual pleasure and philosophical insight within the exhibition’s walls.

Sayart / Maria Kim, sayart2022@gmail.com