New York Showcases Contemporary Korean Ink Art Tradition
– A new exhibition, “New York, New Ink!” opened today at the Korean Cultural Center New York, presenting a contemporary reimagining of the Korean ink painting tradition. The exhibition, organized by the Jeonnam Cultural Foundation – the same organizers behind the Jeonnam International Sumuk Biennale – will run through .
The exhibition aims to reintroduce the aesthetics of ink art and the philosophical foundations of East Asian thought to a global audience. It focuses on a selection of contemporary works that explore the spiritual depth of ink wash painting, a historically underrepresented art form in the Western art historical canon. The show seeks to reframe the relevance of this tradition for modern audiences.
“New York, New Ink!” features the work of eight artists: Han Young Sup, Jeong GwangHee, Kang Un, Kay Yoon, Kim Sang Yeon, Koo Seong Youn, Lee Lee Nam, and Sul Park. These artists are exploring ink not just as a material, but as a concept, working across a diverse range of media including installation, ink painting, rubbing, printmaking, sound, and digital media.
According to Stephanie Seungmin Kim, PhD, “We hope that the oneness of being and things, long explored by the participating artists of New York, New Ink, will linger as a deep and enduring resonance in the hearts of many.” She further stated that the exhibition “redefines one of the world’s oldest artistic traditions through a contemporary lens,” suggesting that even seasoned scholars of ink art will find depth and innovation in the works presented.
The exhibition also highlights artists originating from Jeollanam-do, a region of South Korea recognized for its natural landscapes and spiritual depth, which has significantly influenced Korean art history. This regional connection underscores the cultural legacy embedded within the artworks.
The concept of “ink” in “New York, New Ink!” extends beyond traditional tattoo ink, referencing instead the *sumuk* ink that represents a profound artistic and philosophical lineage central to Korean and broader East Asian culture. The exhibition invites viewers to reflect on this deeper meaning embedded within the art.
The Jeonnam Cultural Foundation’s presentation of “New York, New Ink!” builds upon the foundation laid by the Jeonnam International Sumuk Biennale, aiming to broaden the reach and impact of this artistic tradition. The exhibition seeks to reinterpret the philosophical underpinnings of ink – rooted in East Asian thought, conceptions of nature, and embodied perception – through the sensibilities of contemporary art.
While each artist maintains a unique visual language, their collective practices contribute to a re-examination of ink’s historical and cultural significance. The exhibition promises a fresh perspective on a centuries-old art form, bridging the gap between tradition and innovation.
