In a groundbreaking exhibition that explores the intricate connections between Hawaii and Korea, internationally acclaimed artist Sung Hwan Kim presents his first major solo exhibition at Seoul Museum of Art (SeMA). The exhibition, titled "Ua a'o 'ia 'o ia e ia," which runs from December 19, 2024, through March 30, 2025, offers visitors a unique perspective on cultural exchange, immigration history, and the formation of knowledge across boundaries.
Sung Hwan Kim Solo Exhibition Ua a‘o ‘ia ‘o ia e ia Äi0우아 아오 이아 오 이아 에 이아 (Seoul Museum of Art, 2024. 12.19-2025.3.30. Installation view, Image courtesy of the artist, Photo: Suin Kwon
At the heart of the exhibition lies Kim's ongoing multi-part research series, "A Record of Drifting Across the Sea," which began in 2017. The work delves into the fascinating narratives of early Korean immigrants who passed through Hawaii on their journey to the United States in the early twentieth century. Through a masterful blend of various media including video installations, sound pieces, and two-dimensional works, Kim creates an immersive experience that challenges traditional perspectives on cultural boundaries and historical documentation.
The exhibition's title, presented in both Hawaiian and Korean, reflects Kim's innovative approach to cultural juxtaposition. By translating Hawaiian text into Korean phonology, the artist demonstrates how meanings can traverse cultural boundaries through metaphor rather than direct translation. This approach suggests that Hawaii serves not only as a geographical location but as a metaphorical lens through which to understand Korean history.
One of the exhibition's highlights is "Figure Complex" (2024), a five-part installation that reconstructs Hawaii's landscape through the stories of various historical figures who called the islands home. From independence activist Helen Ahn to contemporary cultural preservationists, the installation weaves together diverse narratives that transcend generational, gender, and racial boundaries.
Sung Hwan Kim Live Photo Cases, 2022, mixed media, dimensions variable. Courtesy of the artist
Hawaiʻi Triennial 2022: Pacific Century—E Hoʻomau no Moananuiākea, Piliāmo‘o, Ē Luku Wale Ē (1997-), Installation view, Image courtesy of Drew Kahuʻāina Broderick, Photo: Christopher Rohrer
The exhibition also features "Live Photo Cases," a series of powerful photographs that connect Hawaiian activism with Korean history. These images, particularly those of George Helm and Terry Keko'olani, tell the story of Kaho'olawe island's transformation from a military testing ground to a symbol of Hawaiian sovereignty, drawing parallel connections to Korea's own historical struggles.
In a unique approach to exhibition design, Kim has created an evolving space where visitors become active participants rather than passive observers. The third chapter of his series, "Untitled" (2024), will be completed during the exhibition through workshops and visitor interactions, transforming the gallery into both a studio and an editing room.
The exhibition represents a significant milestone in contemporary Korean art, following SeMA's annual exhibition series that has previously featured renowned artists such as Koo Bohnchang (2023) and Lee Bul (2021). Kim's work stands out for its ambitious scope and innovative approach to cultural dialogue, making it a must-see event for art enthusiasts and cultural observers alike.
Ua a‘o ‘ia ‘o ia e ia 우아 아오 이아 오 이아 에 이아
Dates: December 19, 2024 – March 30, 2025
Venue: Seosomun Main Branch 2nd and 3rd floor Exhibition Hall
Adresse: Postal Code 04515, 61, Deoksugung-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, Korea(Seosomun-dong)
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
(The last admission is 1 hour prior to closing time)
Closed Days: 01.01 , Every Monday
Admission: Free
Website: https://sema.seoul.go.kr/en/index
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