<<Color The City>> is an exhibition designed to provide audiences with an extensive understanding of the Korean contemporary art scene through the works of two of Korea's most notable artists. This exhibition features the city of Seoul, adorned in vibrant colors, as seen through the eyes of Roh Jungyun and Lee Yerim, both graduates from Hongik University.
The exhibition showcases 15 pieces by Lee Ye-rim, who employs syringes to create intricate lines with a spontaneous and free-flowing effect. Additionally, it includes 7 works by Roh Jungyun, some of which up to 6 meters in length, that capture the fleeting nature of moments through bold and vivid colors executed on-site.
"People built cities and constructed buildings out of necessity, but in the end, it’s the buildings—standing in place, watching people come and go like the tides—that remain as the true guardians of the city. Some buildings carry historical or artistic significance, but most are unremarkable structures where everyday life unfolds. They are the face of the city, and each day they tell me a different story. We spend most of our lives in the city, specifically among the buildings. Above all, these buildings are built solidly and need to be. I think this solidity is similar to the everyday lives of people who live each day with a calm face while hiding a complex interior. The buildings in my paintings are solid yet soft, straight-lined yet organically intertwined, reflecting the emotions of people living in the city."
"I am interested in urban spaces that lack a distinct sense of place or are difficult to define. I categorize the elements that make up the city broadly into natural and artificial, and I express how these two elements coexist or clash through semi-abstract images that blend geometric patterns and natural forms. The geometric patterns in my work symbolize artificial structures like concrete walls or fences.
Seoul, where I live, is a city where old urban landscapes in need of redevelopment coexist with new, apartment-dense neighborhoods. Around the fences of old apartments over 40 years old and the street trees, various weeds grow profusely. Passing by this area every day, I wonder as I watch the weeds grow almost daily: should these plants be considered essential for urban coexistence since they obscure unsightly concrete walls, or should they still be seen as weeds that need to be removed?"
Despite their contrasting styles, Lee Yerim and Roh Jungyun's joint exhibition, <<Color The City>>, shares the common theme of interpreting the city through its colors.
At this opening reception, there will be a guided tour & Korean traditional snacks tasting.
This exhibition will be held until 23 January, 2025.
