Lee Kwan-young is presenting “ECHOES,” a solo exhibition at JN Gallery in Seoul.
The exhibition brings together five sculptures derived from the waveforms of human voices and sounds recorded in nature. Using resin, light-emitting diodes and steel, Lee translates temporary sounds into illuminated three-dimensional forms.
“G-Dragon—PEACEMINUSONE” is based on a recording of singer G-Dragon saying the word “PEACEMINUSONE.” According to JN Gallery, Lee obtained the recording through a direct interview with the musician.
The 170-centimeter-tall sculpture positions the waveform vertically. LEDs installed inside the work illuminate the contours of its resin structure.
The 255-centimeter “Gangneung—Sound of Waves” uses the sound of waves recorded at Gangmun Beach in Gangneung. Lee spent approximately three years recuperating in the coastal city after receiving a terminal diagnosis while at university. The work draws on the beach he regularly visited during that period.
“Mother—Stay Healthy” is based on the voice of Lee’s mother, who lives in a care facility. Soil collected from the orchard where she once worked was incorporated into the sculpture.
Other works include “I Love You,” made from words exchanged between Lee and his wife, and a piece combining the word “love” spoken in different languages by the spouses of ambassadors from 14 countries who volunteer with the Korean Red Cross.
Lee studied business administration at Seoul National University and worked at the Samsung Foundation of Culture and Hansol Cultural Foundation before becoming an artist. For more than two decades, he has visualised voices and other sounds through sculpture, digital prints, video and jewellery.
His previous subjects have included Cardinal Stephen Kim Sou-hwan saying “love,” former U.S. President Barack Obama saying “hope” and John Lennon saying “peace.”
“ECHOES” runs through Oct. 24.
SayArt.net
Maria Kim sayart2022@gmail.com
