Haegue Yang, one of the leading contemporary artists on the international stage, is captivating audiences with her latest exhibition, "Leap Year," at the Hayward Gallery in London. Running from October 9, 2024, to January 5, 2025, this exhibition marks the artist’s first major survey in the UK, showcasing her work from the early 2000s to today. Known for her multisensory installations and sculptures, Yang's creations blur the lines between traditional and modern, offering viewers a deep exploration of cultural identity, social commentary, and sensory engagement.
Yang's artistic journey spans a wide array of media, including installations, sculptures, collages, videos, and performances. Her works draw inspiration from diverse histories and traditions, such as East Asian folklore, modernism, and contemporary art. By weaving these elements into her creations, Yang creates environments that challenge perceptions and evoke deep contemplation. Her approach to art transcends visual appeal, emphasizing the importance of engaging with works on both a sensory and intellectual level.
At the heart of "Leap Year" are Yang’s signature series, such as the Light Sculptures and Sonic Sculptures, alongside three newly commissioned pieces. These new works expand on her previous concepts, exploring the connections between personal experience and broader socio-political themes. The exhibition integrates a variety of materials, from everyday objects like drying racks and light bulbs to traditional Korean paper and hand-knitted yarn, emphasizing the cultural connotations embedded in these materials.
Born in Seoul in 1971 and currently based in both Berlin and Seoul, Yang’s dual cultural identity plays a significant role in her work. Her pieces often reflect the complexities of navigating between different cultures, blending Eastern and Western influences in a way that defies conventional artistic norms. Yang’s installations delve into themes of labor, migration, and displacement, highlighting the fluidity of identity in a globalized world.
"Leap Year" is not only a retrospective of Yang’s artistic evolution but also a statement of her vision for the future of contemporary art. Through her multisensory environments, Yang seeks to expand the viewer's understanding of art’s role in discussing cultural fluidity and socio-political engagement. Her ability to transform everyday objects into powerful symbols of human experience has positioned her as a vital voice in today’s art scene.
The exhibition has received strong backing from cultural institutions, including the Samsung Foundation of Culture and the Korea Foundation, reflecting the significant global interest in Yang’s work. The support from prominent galleries and foundations further highlights her influence on the contemporary art world and her commitment to creating art that resonates across cultures.
Yang’s recent solo exhibitions at venues like the Helsinki Art Museum, National Gallery of Australia, and Pinacoteca de São Paulo have solidified her status as a pioneering artist. Her innovative use of materials and dedication to exploring complex issues through art have earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated following worldwide.
As part of the "Leap Year" exhibition, the Hayward Gallery is hosting a series of guided tours and curator-led discussions, offering visitors an opportunity to gain deeper insights into Yang’s artistic philosophy. These tours, led by experienced curators, provide an engaging platform for exploring the themes and concepts that underpin her work.
"Leap Year" invites viewers to step beyond the visual and experience art through touch, sound, and space. Haegue Yang’s creations encourage a dialogue that goes beyond traditional interpretations, urging audiences to consider broader questions about culture, identity, and the human experience. Through her work, Yang continues to push the boundaries of contemporary art, creating a lasting impact on the global artistic landscape.
Sayart / Maria Kim, sayart2022@gmail.com
