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Interview and Writing: Choi Gabi, Editor
Photo: Grace Kim, Editor
Provided by 4w43Art Gallery
Art traditionally began as an act of imitation and reproduction. However, for an artist, it is not merely about mimicking what is visible. It involves imbuing artistic vision and thought into a unique expression through personal technique. Painter Han Hong Park exemplifies this by approaching the ordinary yet familiar subject of rain to create realistic yet poetic scenes. His work transcends simple imitation, capturing memories and longing within the landscape, embodying a sublime transformation of emotions, even within sad memories. His art resonates with Paul Klee's notion that "art does not reproduce the visible; it makes visible."
Han Hong Park delves into portraying the metaphoric elements of human solitude through the backdrop of New York. His works exhibit dynamic depictions, where flashes of light amidst gloomy urban nights become a metaphor for the chaotic wonder of daily life. Park's creations challenge conventional perspectives, characterized by an invisible yet present fluidity.
His artistic approach reveals harmony within chaos, transforming mundane scenes into poignant expressions that evoke emotion and nostalgia. Park's style is neither constrained by logic nor gravity; instead, it opens a portal to viewing everyday life from a refreshing angle.
Park, an artist residing in the United States for over 13 years, has exhibited his work extensively. He graduated from Daegu University of Arts and furthered his artistry in Italy and multiple U.S. venues, including New York's prestigious Naum Gallery. He identifies both the stimulation of New York's artistic hub and a yearning for increased support and appreciation from fellow Koreans in his journey.
In discussing his creative process, Park highlights his preference to forgo preliminary sketches, initiating each piece directly on canvas to preserve the spontaneity of his ideas. His art uniquely blends the technique of oil painting with the transparency of watercolor, vividly capturing the essence of rain to portray both the beauty and emotional depth it embodies.
Looking ahead, Park aspires to diversify his exploration of themes beyond rain, including more abstract forms of art. His ambition aligns with an evolving artistic journey akin to renowned figures like David Hockney, emphasizing the pursuit of innovation regardless of age.
Through his art, Park invites viewers to uncover the often-overlooked joys and dreams within themselves, offering a transformative experience that bridges visual pleasure and inner reflection.
