Kang Jun Seok is a Korean artist who specializes in creating dreamlike characters that exist somewhere between nature and a fantasy world. In 2014, the artist relocated to Jeju Island’s tranquil province, where he claims the landscape resembles his imagined ideals.
“My work began from my inner desire to be relaxed,” Kand said. “Then, I pursued a little bird staying in a well, a small cottage or palace, which is desolate, a barn, and a church that I think might be unknown except for me. I used to take comfort from drawing such images,” he added.
The artist is exhibiting a suite of these enchanting characters at Hong Kong‘s Gallery Ascend. As Kang’s first international solo exhibition, he uses a film-like presentation of greenery to transport the realm of fantasy he experienced on the island to the gallery, complementing the large-scale paintings and totemic heads on display.
Kang, a master of soft tones and gentle brush strokes, defies artistic conventions by incorporating natural elements and Jeju Island landscapes into his work. Each character carries a personal object that serves as a philosophic metaphor for childhood, attempting to free the audience from the stresses of everyday life.
“My Mate in HK,” which is on view at Gallery Ascend until April 16 and is located inside The Arca hotel in Wong Chuk Hang, is nearing the end of its run.
Gallery Ascend
8B, The Arca,
43 Heung Yip Rd,
Wong Chuk Hang,
Hong Kong
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