The Korean Cultural Center in Argentina is hosting the exhibition “Mujeres en Movimiento” (Women in Motion) at its venue in Buenos Aires until Sept. 26.
This event presents works by three female artists who have translated their personal reflections—born from life transitions such as marriage, migration and childbirth—into the language of art. The participating artists are Kang Bora (Mexico), Kang Youjeong (India) and Yuna Chun (Australia). Living in different cultures and environments, they have each contemplated the “sustainability of life as a female artist.” Their layered experiences are embodied in various art forms—painting, printmaking, drawing and zines (independent, self-published booklets created and produced by the artist)—expressing stories that are both personal and universal.
The exhibition features about 20 visual artworks, along with some 40 zines created over the course of a year by the three artists and curator Hwang Sukyung, each based on their individual explorations. This project, in particular, is notable for going beyond simply showcasing works, as it seeks to deconstruct and reinterpret the stereotypes and social images embedded in the word ajumma (a term used in Korean to refer to or address a married woman who is not a relative).
On the opening day, August 6, a talk program was held featuring the participating artists and the curator. On Aug. 7, two workshops were offered for visitors to take part in. These included an activity that combined Eastern aesthetics in painting and writing to create bookmarks, as well as a zine-making workshop using colors extracted from traditional Korean clothing. The zines created in this workshop were more than just craft projects—they represented new attempts to articulate personal experiences through the medium of publishing. These works will later be shared at an exhibition in Korea.
The Center is open on weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission to the exhibition is free.
The Korean Cultural Center in Thailand is hosting “Production Design: Scene Architects Build On-Screen Worlds” until Sept. 26. This special exhibition sheds light on the world of production design in Korean cinema. It presents the creative processes and outcomes of leading Korean production designers Ryu Seong-hui, Cho Hwa-sung and Ahrum Han, illustrating the crucial roles and functions of production design in filmmaking.
The exhibition features five films: “Decision to Leave” and “The Handmaiden” by Ryu Seong-hui, the former winning the Vulcan Award of the Technical Artist at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival, “Hansan: Rising Dragon” by Cho Hwa-sung and “Kill Boksoon” and “Kingmaker” by Ahrum Han. The displays include storyboards, concept designs, set plans and graphic designs, accompanied by edited videos of 3D sets and film scenes.
On July 18 an event was held featuring a conversation between production designer Ryu Seong-hui and the audience. Before the discussion, attendees watched key scenes from “When Life Gives You Tangerines.” Lee Sunju, director of the Center, then introduced director Ryu, highlighting meticulous scene composition as a key factor in the success of Korean films and dramas. Director Ryu went on to share behind-the-scenes episodes and insights into the role of a production designer, among other topics. The Q&A session, attended by over 150 people, brought a flood of questions about working with director Park Chan-wook, the qualities of a good production designer and more—creating a lively, engaging atmosphere.
Ms. Lee Sunju, the director of the Center, said “I hope exploring the world of production design would give the Thai public a deeper understanding and appreciation of Korean cinema.”
The exhibition is held across the first and second floor galleries of the Cultural Center and is open to the public on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. More details are available on the Cultural Center’s Facebook page (@ koreanculturalcenterTH) and other social media channels.