The Korean Cultural Center in Turkey, working together with the Chilgok Arts Council, opened a groundbreaking art exhibition titled "Arirang Silk Road: Transcendence of Existence" on August 8. This special exhibition was organized to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation and represents what organizers describe as a turning point for the globalization of Korean contemporary art.
The exhibition presents an innovative conceptual approach by deconstructing the traditional Korean folk song "Arirang" into three philosophical components: A (我), Ri (理), and Rang (朗). Each element serves as a distinct conceptual pillar that deepens ontological reflection through artistic expression. The character A (我) represents the suffering of life and human dignity, while Ri (理) embodies the wisdom of relationships and the beauty of natural order. Meanwhile, Rang (朗) signifies the fundamental joy of life and the freedom of existence.
Five accomplished artists participated in this cross-cultural artistic endeavor, bringing together diverse perspectives and artistic languages. The exhibition features four Korean artists: Go Geumhwa, Park Jongtae, Lee Jungwon, and Lim Mimi. Joining them is Koskun, a distinguished Turkish-born artist who is currently based in France, adding an international dimension to the showcase.
Each participating artist approached the theme through their own unique artistic language, visually embodying both the sentiment of Arirang and its deeper ontological reflections. The diverse artistic interpretations create what organizers describe as an integration of philosophical practice and artistic experimentation, bridging Korean cultural heritage with contemporary artistic expression.
The exhibition's opening ceremony drew significant attention from art enthusiasts and cultural observers. Miss Su, one of the attendees, shared her emotional response to the artworks during the ceremony. "In the works that expressed Arirang through Korean contemporary art, I was able to find true beauty and a deeply stirring emotion rising from within," she stated, reflecting the powerful impact the exhibition had on visitors.
This cultural exchange initiative represents a significant milestone in promoting Korean contemporary art on the international stage, particularly in Turkey, a nation that historically served as a bridge between East and West along the ancient Silk Road. The exhibition's title deliberately evokes this historical connection while positioning Korean art within a broader global cultural dialogue.
