The master of video art vs. a new rising force

Paik Nam-june’s Piano Television

The works of a renowned artist who’s a pioneer of his genre are always a treat to view. So when you get two greats in one exhibition, it’s hard to ignore.

What makes “Two Great Masters in the 21st Century” interesting is that it features the contrasts between Paik Nam-june and Kim Chong-hak.

The late Paik was known as a master and pioneer of video art and an eccentric innovator who was always looking for something new.

On the other hand, Kim, according to the organizers, is a rising force in modern Korean art circles who has been turning heads with his landscape paintings of Mount Seorak.

Kim Chong-hak’s 2008 acrylic on canvas. Provided by the organizer

“The upcoming exhibition is unique in that it features two leaders in media art and landscape painting,” said Jang Hee-jung of Pyo Gallery’s PR department.

“The most recognizable and representative Korean artists from the 21st century were chosen after considering other themes. It’s an opportunity to take in the works of two masters who have contributed a great deal to the development of Korean art.”

One of Paik’s representative works, “Piano Television,” which consists of an old piano with TV sets attached, as well as other video artworks and prints from his engravings dating to the 1988 Seoul Olympics will be displayed.

The late Paik was said to have “continuously strived for innovative ideas and in the process played a large role in media art gaining wider recognition,” according to Jang.

Kim is one of the leading figures in modern Korean art with his colorful and expressive landscape paintings.

He focuses on scenes from Mount Seorak and has been living in the mountains periodically since 1979 to capture their essence of the nature and scenic beauty. It’s also interesting to note that Kim does not have any titles for his paintings.

“For this exhibition, Kim’s paintings of Mount Seorak representing all four seasons will be displayed. Paintings showing a variety of scenes from Mount Seorak as well as several of Kim’s latest works, completed last year are available,” said Jang.

“Two Great Masters in the 21st Century” will be on from Feb. 11 through Mar. 21 at Pyo Gallery beside the Grand Hyatt in Itaewon, Yongsan District. Pyo Gallery is accessible via Noksapyeong Station, line 6, exit No. 1.

For more information, call (02) 543-7337 or visit www.pyoart.com.

By Jason Kim Staff Reporter [jason@joongang.co.kr]