Modern treats from down under

Korean art lovers will have an opportunity to familiarize themselves with Australian contemporary art and a range of modernists from around the world at the Korea International Art Fair, or KIAF, which starts today.

Some 192 galleries from 17 countries will present more than 5,000 art works, such as paintings, sculptures, photos and installations, at the nation’s biggest art market, which runs through Monday in halls A and B at COEX in southern Seoul.

This year’s guest country is Australia, which launched diplomatic ties with Korea 50 years ago. One of the highlights from the country, which has 65 artists at the show, is Godwin Bradbeer’s “Imago-Codex 3” (2010), above right, at the James Makin Gallery.

Other top draws are U.S. artist Tom Wesselmann’s lithograph “Smoker” (1976), top left, Fernando Botero’s oil painting “Seated Clown” (2008), far right, and Tracy Emin’s “For You,” (2008), right. Admission is 15,000 won ($13) for adults. Call (02) 766-3703 or log onto www.kiaf.org for details.