Yun Hyong-keun / Paris

Yun Hyong-keun, a renowned Korean abstract painter, explored his artistic journey during a transformative period in the early 1980s. His brushstrokes bled naturally across the linen or cotton raw canvas, reminiscent of traditional East Asian calligraphy or ink and wash paintings. During his stay in Paris, he found freedom of expression and embraced the Dansaekhwa (monochrome painting) movement. This limited-run cloth-bound catalogue showcases his paintings and works on hanji, with an accompanying text by art critic Oh Gwangsu and a reflection on his practice by writer Mara Hoberman.

Format: Hardback
Length: 104 pages
Publication date: 04 January 2024
Publisher: David Zwirner

A profound examination of the artistic journey of Yun Hyong-keun, a renowned Korean abstract painter, during a pivotal period in the early 1980s.

His brushstrokes effortlessly flowed across the unbleached linen or cotton raw canvas, resembling the traditional East Asian calligraphy or ink and wash paintings.

— The Korea Times

From 1980 to 1982, Yun Hyong-keun found solace in Paris, seeking both respite from the tumultuous political unrest that erupted in South Korea and a fresh artistic haven to nurture his creativity. His brief but transformative stay in the city became the catalyst for his liberation of expression, which had been stifled by the political repression he had encountered in his homeland.

Yun's signature abstract compositions seamlessly blend and transcend Eastern and Western art movements and visual traditions, solidifying his status as one of the most significant Korean artists of the 20th century. He is widely recognized as the preeminent figure associated with the Dansaekhwa (monochrome painting) movement, a group of influential Korean artists from the 1960s and 1970s. Using a limited palette consisting of ultramarine and umber, Yun meticulously crafted his compositions by layering paint upon raw canvas or linen, often applying the next coat before the previous one had fully dried.

Published in conjunction with the artist's exhibition at David Zwirner, Paris, in 2023, this limited-run cloth-bound catalogue serves as a comprehensive exploration of his paintings and works on hanji. An accompanying text, penned by art critic Oh Gwangsu, delves into Yun's artistic trajectory prior to his relocation to Paris, particularly highlighting his shift towards his signature works in the 1970s. Mara Hoberman, a writer, then reflects on Yun's artistic practice and its profound influence.

Weight: 962g
Dimension: 247 x 300 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781644231166