The Greatest Moment: Kim Tschang-yeul & Lee Ufan

S2A opens the year 2024 with the collection exhibition, featuring the innovative and distinctive artistic identities established by Kim Tschang-yeul and Lee Ufan through their persistent pursuit of art. This exhibition showcases the significant works of two maestros, Kim Tschang-yeul and Lee Ufan, who have opened a new horizon in Korean art, presenting a diverse spectrum of their artworks from the 1960s to the present day.

The 1960s and 70s in Korea were a period marked by efforts to reconstruct society following Japanese occupation, liberation, war, and revolution. The consequence of these transformative events inevitably permeated the art scene, prompting artists of that time to explore a deeper understanding of Orientalism and anti-colonial concepts originating from Western culture amid the rapidly changing society. Rather than outright rejection of Western culture, they aimed for coexistence and exchange, embarking on a quest to define their Korean identity in the global context. Concurrently, the establishment of a government ultimately led to the formation of art institutes and associations in Korea. A multitude artistic experiments unfolded swiftly, giving rise to numerous talented artists. Some mid-career artists ventured onto the global stage, immersing themselves in learning and experiences worldwide. Those who gained international recognition went on to establish a profound art world, rooted in their artistic spirits, thereby laying the foundation for the diverse spectrum of Korean art. 

Kim Tschang-yeul, known for his hyper-realistic brushwork capturing Eastern culture and aesthetics, and Lee Ufan, a globally acclaimed artist who shifted the paradigm of painting with an incorporation of both Eastern and Western elements, played pivotal roles in the modern and contemporary art scene in Korea. Having met and formed a friendship in their youth in a foreign country, they mutually influenced each other's work as they progressed through their artistic journeys. Their efforts aimed to encapsulate the internationalization of contemporary Korean art and define the identity of Korean art, guiding the flow of modern and contemporary Korean art history.

This exhibition provides an opportunity to explore the artistic worlds of Kim Tschang-yeul and Lee Ufan, examining how their artistic spirits have evolved and influenced the contemporary art over the years. We invite you to witness the grand moments encapsulated in the artworks of these two maestros.

S2A

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