Beyond Dansaekhwa: Redefining Tradition Through Endless Experimentation

[English digest of the original coverage]

By Youngok Son

Lee Kang-so, a pioneering figure dedicated to artistic experimentation, is presenting his solo exhibition, Fields of Becoming, concurrently in Daegu and New York. The exhibition highlights his unique artistic philosophy, which prioritizes the viewer's autonomous interpretation.

For years, Artist Lee contemplated alternatives to traditional art forms that unilaterally project the artist's subjective views onto the audience. Following a period of deep reflection and creative trial, he chose to move away from rigid intentionality, embracing a more spontaneous brushwork. This approach naturally resulted in subtle, ambiguous landscapes—open-ended forms that allow viewers to interpret the pieces through the lens of their own personal experiences.

Since 1989, this philosophy has driven the creation of open-ended series evoking images of ducks, deer, houses, and boats. Rather than imposing a fixed message, these works invite viewers to become active participants in meaning-making. Consequently, Lee's artistic universe is best defined by the term "Becoming," a concept that directly inspired the title of his dual exhibitions, Fields of Becoming. In recent years, he has also been experimenting with vibrant primary colors, exploring new ways to utilize color while maintaining an objective, non-expressive stance.

Regarding his classification within the art market, Artist Lee clarified that he does not define himself strictly as a Dansaekhwa (monochrome painting) artist. Instead, he wishes to be recognized as an experimental creator who has consistently pushed the boundaries of traditional painting and sculpture.