Galerie Vazieux, a Paris-based gallery specializing in post-war abstract art, is set to showcase the artistic synergy of two renowned figures, Lee Ungno and Park In-kyung, at the upcoming Art Basel Hong Kong in 2025. The duo exhibition will take place from March 26 to 30, 2025, at Booth 3D26, and promises to bring forward the remarkable artistic dialogue between the couple. This exhibition will also celebrate two important milestones: the 120th anniversary of Lee Ungno’s birth in 2024 and Park In-kyung’s centennial in 2026.
Lee Ungno (1904–1989), a key figure in modern Korean art, and Park In-kyung (b. 1926), one of Korea's first-generation female artists, have long shared a deep artistic connection. Their collaboration began in 1947 when they met during one of Lee's exhibitions. They married in the same year and later moved to France in 1958 to escape the limitations of the Korean art scene and to engage with the innovations in Western art. Lee went on to play a pivotal role in the Parisian avant-garde movement, while Park made her mark through her exhibitions, particularly at Galerie Sainte-Énimie.
Lee's major contribution to the art world was through his work in Art Informel and Lyrical Abstraction, as well as founding the Académie de Peinture Orientale de Paris, where many artists studied Eastern painting techniques. Despite their groundbreaking careers, Lee and Park faced hardships, notably their wrongful imprisonment in East Berlin in 1967, where they were accused of espionage for North Korea. This period had a profound impact on their lives and careers, with Park assuming greater responsibility for the household while Lee focused on his artwork after their release.
Both artists, though differing in approach, have shared a lifelong exchange of influences. Lee’s bold and dynamic abstract works contrasted with Park’s more lyrical and introspective compositions. Their art, however, remained rooted in Eastern traditions while incorporating Western abstraction, reflecting a unique fusion of both worlds. Lee’s abstract works, such as the Composition series, and Park’s text-based art, highlight their shared interest in letters and symbols, demonstrating the depth of their artistic connection.
The exhibition at Art Basel Hong Kong will present a rare opportunity to experience their joint artistic vision, which bridges the cultural divide between East and West. The works, including Lee’s People series, which portrays collective human energy, and Park’s pieces which explore a deep connection to nature, offer a deeply humanistic view of life.
Park In-kyung upholds Lee Ungno’s legacy, particularly through the Lee Ungno Museum and the Académie de Peinture Orientale de Paris. As she approaches her 99th year, Park remains committed to her artistic practice. The exhibition aims to bring the artistic dialogue between these two visionary artists into the public eye, allowing viewers to witness their transformative approach to art, shaped by both Eastern and Western influences.
This exhibit is a tribute to Lee Ungno’s and Park In-kyung’s enduring impact on the art world and a celebration of their collaboration, which helped shape the trajectory of Korean modernism. For art lovers and collectors alike, this exhibition provides an invaluable opportunity to explore the remarkable journey of these two artists, whose works continue to inspire and resonate with global audiences.
The exhibition will be presented by Galerie Vazieux at Art Basel Hong Kong from March 26 to 30, 2025.
Sayart / Maria Kim, sayart2022@gmail.com
