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By Henna Heo, Editor
Photo Credits: Courtesy of the Artist
The artistry of Yoo Myung-Gyun emanates a quiet intensity that is felt even in its silence. Melding the power of nature with the harmony of place and materials, his work exudes a sense of solemn charisma. Such is the depth and breadth of his passion for art that conventional praises fail to capture its extent. Describing himself as a traveler, Yoo Myung-Gyun embodies a spirit of wondrous freedom. This article delves into the artist's work and his captivating journey.
Introduction
"Hello, could you please introduce yourself?"
"Hello, I'm artist Yoo Myung-Gyun. I graduated in 1985 from Busan National University's Department of Art Education. After approximately two years of artistic activity in Korea, I moved to Japan, centering my work in Tokyo. I have held numerous solo and group exhibitions, including tours at the Tokyo National Museum of Modern Art and the Osaka National Museum of International Contemporary Art. I have been awarded at prestigious events such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Museum's Japanese Contemporary Art Exhibition and the Imadate Contemporary Art Exhibition."
"Post-1996, I returned to Korea, taking a step back from my art. It wasn't until my solo exhibition in 2007 at A Story Gallery in Seoul that I resumed my artistic endeavors, subsequently participating in exhibitions like 'Off the Wall' at Creyak Museum, South Korea, 'Korean Eye' at Saatchi Gallery, London, U.K., Gallery 604 in Busan, South Korea, and Purdue University, IN. I’m currently crafting new works exploring the history of our planet as symbolized by the earth's soil, to be showcased in New York in 2020."
What prompted your move from Busan to Japan and then to the United States?
"At the time of my graduation, Korea's art scene was limited in its understanding of contemporary art's myriad influences. The history of art criticism in Korea was also relatively nascent. My time in Japan offered a valuable opportunity to observe how a similar Eastern cultural sphere embraced Western contemporary art. It allowed me to assess Korean contemporary art from an objective standpoint."
"After a hiatus in 1996, I decided to start afresh elsewhere in 2007. Initially considering Beijing, the encounter with China's contemporary art scene redirected my path. A few residencies led me to New York, and after participating in the 'Korean Eye' exhibition in London in 2012, my desire to work abroad grew stronger. Choosing the U.S. was largely due to the valid visa situation there (laughs), and I have been re-establishing my artistic career since obtaining permanent residency."
Your art spans installation, 2D, and 3D work. Could you elaborate on your concept and medium?
"After a decade-long hiatus, contemporary art had evolved significantly. It shifted from individualistic perspectives to a societal role akin to civic movements, leaving me feeling alienated and wondering if there was a place for me. I turned to nature, exploring ecosystems, insects, plants, and sunlight – personal fascinations that led me to ponder the relationship between human civilization and nature."
"Starting with painting, I experimented with refined pigments and depicted natural elements found in forests. Economic instability, however, led me to seek artist-in-residence programs offering a more accommodating lifestyle. Inspiration struck in Georgia's primordial forests, inspiring me to gather soil samples from various states. These samples guided new experiments on the planet's history and evolution of life. The Western landscape’s rock formations and geological layers have deeply impacted my work."
Your installations are notably grand. What drives this scale?
"I enjoy working on a grand scale (laughs). Large-scale work invokes intense energy and passion, alongside the allure of new challenges. While smaller works might not lack passion, living as an artist in the U.S. involves continuous relocations, affecting work size. Despite the stress, the challenge of expressing my thoughts is irresistibly appealing."
Describe your artistic process.
"During breaks, I ponder inspirations drawn from nature while traveling between residencies. National parks provide rich intuitive insights for my work. I plan meticulously before execution, though adjustments occur."
Are site-specific installations typical for you?
"Indeed. Recent installations are primarily crafted on-site, necessitating expertise in construction. Site investigation, design feasibility, and precise execution are critical due to the varied on-site conditions. My process extends over time, from inspiration to completion, often involving extensive drying times. I’m also researching expedited methods."
You received a sculpture award from the AHL Foundation. What was your reaction?
"Curiosity about other Korean artists’ experiences in the U.S. led to connecting with them through the AHL Foundation award. I’m thankful to the judges and the foundation for this honor."
How do you define yourself in one word, and why?
If you could switch bodies for 24 hours, who would you choose and why?
"Unimaginable! Like Earth's history, my body is a moment in the evolution of DNA amidst the universe. I see it as a natural space my soul briefly occupies."
What are your future aspirations?
"Relocating often poses challenges for comprehensive work. I hope to establish a personal studio in New York next year, dedicating more time and overcoming spatial limits to create more profound work."
A graduate of Busan National University, Yoo Myung-Gyun honed his craft in Japan and the United States. His exhibitions have graced venues such as the Tokyo National Museum of Modern Art, Osaka National Museum of International Art, Saatchi Gallery, and Creyak Museum. Recently, through artist-in-residence programs, he continues to engage vigorously with art.
