ASIA WEEK NEW YORK AUTUMN 2024 EXHIBITION
Courtesy Korean Cultural Center NY
Ik-Joong Kang: We are Connected
September 26 – November 7, 2024
Atrium & Gallery at the KCCNY
Ik-Joong Kang bridges East and West through his evocative art. This exhibition reflects his artistic world weaving diverse elements into a harmonious tapestry to illustrate the interconnectedness of our global community.
At the heart of Kang’s aesthetic is a macrocosmic worldview that transcends boundaries of race, nationality, age, gender, and nature. This expansive perspective is complemented by his microcosmic view, shaped by his formative experiences as a Korean artist in New York during the 1980s and 1990s. While studying at Pratt Institute in 1984, Kang carried a 3-inch canvas in his pocket, sketching diverse New Yorkers during his subway rides and long work hours. These early experiences honed his skill in capturing intricate details while envisioning grand-scale projects.
Kang’s art transforms everyday materials and traditional motifs into profound visual narratives. His monumental works, such as the vast installations composed of thousands of small parts, serve as metaphors for the collective human experience. Each fragment, whether it be a piece of glazed porcelain, a Hangeul tile, or a multimedia element, embodies a story, a memory, or a piece of cultural heritage.
Kang’s fascination with traditional Korean motifs, such as Moon Jars and Hangeul, is evident in his contemporary reinterpretations. His installations highlight the timeless beauty of Korean culture while engaging with universal themes of love, hope, and human connection. Through his art, Kang transcends geographical and cultural boundaries, illustrating how individual stories and traditions contribute to a collective narrative.
As you explore this exhibition, may you be moved by the intricate details, the blend of old and new, and the silent conversations between East and West. Kang’s art invites reflection on our own journeys, our connections with others, and the beautiful complexity of the world we inhabit.
To learn more and view featured artworks, click here.
