Another incredible art exhibit presented by the AHL Foundation and sponsored by jason J Kim Oral Design NY!
You simply can't miss the solo exhibition by Wonju Seo entitled Dual Identities: a contemporary interpretation of Korean Bojagi from February 11 to June 8 at the BBCN Bank Manhattan Branch.
Seo’s boldly colorful yet delicate contemporary textile pieces are inspired and rooted in the tradition of bojagi making (patchwork). Combining traditional hand sewing, embroidery and silk painting techniques with contemporary mixed media collage techniques, the abstract, beautifully hand stitched textile works reflect the intimate daily life experiences of the artist while evoking a mirror through which the artist redefines herself as a contemporary woman who grew up under a patriarchy in Korean cultural. The artwork acts as a window through which Seo views, defines, and experiences the outside world around her. The unique geometric abstractions bring together the artist’s dual identities of being a Korean woman and a woman who is living in a western society.
This exhibition is presented as part of AHL Foundation’s Art in the Workplace Program which exhibits contemporary artwork within the work and business environment. BBCN Bank and AHL Foundation’s initiative to provide cultural enrichment to the local business community has received much applause from employees, customers, the local community, and art enthusiasts. The program aims to create greater exposure for talented artists while fostering easier access and support for the arts among Korean-American business leaders.
Date: February 11 – June 9, 2015
Place: BBCN Bank, 16 West 32nd Street, New York NY 10001
From the Artist himself:
"The main theme on my work is my root where I came from including the history of Korean women’s lives. My work answers several life-long questions of where I come from, where I am, and where I am going. The colors I have selected in my work represent my own visual language that contains various personal circumstances, life experiences and knowledge. The significance of the rectangular shapes of my work mirrors the window from where I would gaze and imagine the outside world as a child. In addition, the “window” evokes the freedom to explore the unknown world around me that so many Korean women who grew up in a traditional Confucian culture like me has often wondered about. From inside my window, I redefine my confidence and boldly throw open the window to the outside world and understand its limitless opportunities, just like the developments in the lives of contemporary Korean women. Certainly, my work brings together dual identities of being a Korean and being a woman who is living in a modern society. "
You can learn more about Wonju Sep on his website HERE.