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Photo Credits: Artist Archive
The history of painting is said to have begun with human history itself, dating back to when mankind first started creating wall art. Influenced by contemporary culture and lifestyle, art has undergone numerous transformations. The human desire to create more art more rapidly eventually led to the invention of the camera. Despite photography taking a portion of the spotlight from painting, there is a reason why it can never surpass the latter. Artists pursuing Photorealism express artistic value through paintings that are as realistic as photographs, yet possess qualities beyond mere images. We met with artist Kyoungkeun Noh, who is expanding his horizons in hyperrealism and photorealism, at the Art Line Gallery in Hackensack.
Kyoungkeun Noh, an artist who studied ceramics at Hongik University, pursued a master's degree at the New York Academy of Fine Art in 2013. Among a diverse array of international artists, Noh explored a wide range of studies from Western traditional to contemporary art. Despite his brief ten-year career as a painter, he remains focused on portrait work, grounded in the fundamental idea that Western art begins with the depiction of the human body. Moreover, he contributes as a curator at the Hackensack Art Line Gallery.
Good day, Mr. Noh. Could you share why you transitioned from studying ceramics in Korea to majoring in painting in the United States?
I have always been involved in drawing and painting, even during my ceramics studies. It was not so much a specific turning point; upon entering graduate school in America, I delved into painting. During this time, I became captivated by Color Theory. In Korea, education on color was not specifically emphasized; instead, focus was on genres like portraits, abstracts, or nudes. Through Color Theory at graduate school, my perspective on viewing paintings changed, and I integrated these concepts into my work. Revisiting works by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Leonardo da Vinci allowed me to rediscover the joy in painting.
Currently, you are focusing on portraits, a genre known for its realism. Could you explain the characteristics of your work?
Indeed, I concentrate on portraiture. Establishing a concept of 'color' during my studies gave me a new perspective on classical masters. My research into their techniques and color expression led me to discover a balance between detailed photographic-like imagery and classic painting. My work aims to portray realism, harnessing photographic details while infusing artistic value that transcends the photograph itself.
Do you have a particular fondness for realism artists?
I appreciate many artists, not limited to realism. While I admire Rembrandt, Rubens, and Leonardo da Vinci for their depiction skills, I am particularly drawn to their use of color. I greatly admire Lucian Freud for his ability to meld traditional colors with modern expressions, blending classical techniques with contemporary expression. Freud’s technically precise and thematically expressive techniques significantly influence my work.
Will you continue to focus solely on portraits in your work?
For now, my focus remains on people, and I am intent on delving deeper into hyperrealism, more specifically, Photorealism. This genre, based on pop art and minimalism, employs photographic imagery, capturing detail like a photo while embodying artistic expression that surpasses it. Unlike photographs, which remain flat, Photorealism reveals dimensions the eye perceives. Through layers, it encapsulates three-dimensionality, as seen in Rembrandt’s paintings. I wish to delve further into such artwork in the future.
As artists use their work to communicate with the public, how do you address the challenge of engaging audiences with modern art forms like surrealism or abstraction that can be difficult to connect with?
Sometimes viewers struggle to understand paintings but want to do so. That’s the nature of abstraction. Though artists imbue their work with meaning, viewers needn’t necessarily find or empathize with that meaning. Classic art often carries a story, making it easier for audiences to relate due to shared understanding. Modern art lacks this consensus, so it’s essential for viewers to engage based on their own perceptions and feelings rather than the artist's intentions.
I understand you are also engaged in curating. What led you to this role, and what does curating entail?
During graduate studies, I noticed many young artists lacked opportunities to showcase their work. I wanted to provide these opportunities while expanding within American society, leading me to start curating at Art Line Gallery. Curating offers young and local artists a platform to present their work, which is highly rewarding. Successful curation requires extensive art knowledge, the ability to unearth new talent, plan exhibitions, and build networks, along with commercializing artworks. I strive to fulfill these roles, wishing to raise awareness of different art forms throughout the community.
Tips for Art Appreciation
Before viewing, having knowledge about the artist or painting can enhance understanding. However, without prior knowledge, viewing becomes mere observation. I advise viewers to pause before a piece, engage with it, particularly in abstraction, where empathy is challenging, and let personal sensations guide them to interpret the work’s essence—the dialogue between the viewer and the piece is crucial.
Art Line Gallery, located in Hackensack, is currently hosting a solo exhibition by Spanish artist Aida Miro, combining live music and painting in 'FROM IBIZA TO NEW YORK.' The gallery also has a year-round exhibition schedule featuring artists from around the world. Personally, I am preparing to participate in competitions organized by the BP Company in the UK and the Portrait Museum in Washington, D.C., which serve as motivation beyond ongoing work. While accustomed to introspection, I wish to break barriers through such events.
I am engaged in group exhibitions and preparing for solo showcases. Thank you for your invaluable insights. We look forward to your broader artistic endeavors and hope Art Line Gallery continues to enrich lives with diverse cultural experiences.
Kyoungkeun Noh
