New exhibit features Joseon-era artwork

Arts & Design

New exhibit features Joseon-era artwork

Published: 11 Jan. 2012, 20:33

Left: “Aerando (Orchids on the Cliff)” by Gim Eung-won. Above: “Pungjukdo (Bamboos in the Wind)” by Gim Gyu-jin. Provided by Hakgojae

Hakgojae, one of the few galleries that displays art from the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910) and contemporary works, is holding the “Orchid and Bamboo Paintings” exhibition featuring two artists who lived through the late Joseon era and the Japanese colonial period.

Gim Eung-won (1855-1921), one of the featured artists, was the follower of the style of Heungseon Daewongun, the father of King Gojong. Heungseon Daewongun was not only an ambitious politician but also an excellent painter of orchids.

“He was influenced by Heungseon Daewongun but also created his own style,” said Woo Chan-kyu, president of the gallery, during a press preview last Friday.

The other artist is Gim Gyu-jin (1868-1933), who was the master of bamboo paintings in his time.

“There were many excellent artists in this period like these two, but they have hardly been in the spotlight,” Woo said.

He added that orchids have traditionally been used as a “metaphor for the life of gunja, or noble men, who cultivate themselves morally.” Bamboos symbolize gunja’s integrity as well as peace and stability.

*The show runs through Feb. 19. Admission is free. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays to Saturdays and to 6 p.m. on Sundays. Go to Anguk Station, line No. 3, exit 2, and walk for 10 minutes. Visit www.hakgojae.com or call (02) 720-1524~6.

By Moon So-young [symoon@joongang.co.kr]