Contemporary Korean Design, NYC

By Teo van den Broeke

The first collaborative outing from New York's R 20th Century Gallery and the Gallery Seomi in Seoul, 'Contemporary Korean Design' opened earlier this week in the former.

Bringing to light work from a host of Korean artists, the exhibition features a range of one-off pieces, some never-before-seen in the West.

Showcasing work from a generation which has taught itself to coalesce traditional Korean practices with more contemporary concepts - the exhibition includes a range of ceramics, alongside carved furniture in wood, stone and metal.

Lesser-known names, including Jin Jang and Zong-Sun Bahk feature alongside more established artists such as renowned Korean designer, Byung-Hoon Choi.

Choi's series of angular chairs, produced in carbon fibre and black granite, stand in contrast to Hun-Chung Lee's handmade ceramic pieces - which come coated in a chaotic patina of coloured glazes.

The contemporary take on traditional practice found across the collection, not only bears witness to Korea’s rich history of object making - it is also the first to feature both Eastern artists and Western-educated creatives who have returned to their home country to practice.

10 March 2010 | Design