Kun-Yong Lee Collaborates with Samsung Art Store

The essence of art often lies in its ability to provoke thought and evoke emotion. This timeless debate about whether art should be created or discovered is something that artist Kun-Yong Lee has delved into extensively. His journey through art is not merely an exploration of visual expression but a personal journey that involves his entire being. With Lee’s work now being featured on the Samsung Art Store, a platform that provides art in high resolution on Samsung’s Art TVs, a new audience is set to experience his unique artistic philosophy.

Kun-Yong Lee, a prominent figure in contemporary Korean art, has been a pioneering force in the Korean avant-garde movement. His innovative approach began garnering international attention in the 1970s, marked by his participation in prestigious exhibitions such as the Paris Biennale and the São Paulo Biennale. His accolades include the Grand Prize at the Lisbon International Show and the Order of Cultural Merit (Silver Crown) in Korea. Lee’s artistic repertoire is vast, encompassing drawing, painting, photography, installation, and performance, all of which explore the interplay between the body, the medium, and the audience.

The Samsung Art Store, known for its expansive collection of over 3,500 art pieces from more than 70 partners, now features a curated selection of 15 pieces from Lee’s body of work. This service is available on Samsung Art TVs, including The Frame and QLED models, enhancing the way art is experienced at home. The art is presented in stunning 4K resolution, allowing viewers to appreciate the intricate details of each piece as if witnessing them in a gallery.

### The Sensory Nature of Art

The “Bodyscape” series is perhaps one of Lee’s most renowned works. It originated from a serendipitous moment when his young daughter, while learning to walk, left a crayon mark on the wall. This accidental creation led Lee to ponder the possibility of art emerging from natural, unintentional movements. This perspective aligns with the thoughts of philosophers like Maurice Merleau-Ponty, who suggested that knowledge stems from sensory experience, and Ludwig Wittgenstein, who emphasized the limitations of language in expressing meaning. For Lee, art is not a product of deliberate intention but a direct response to the world through the body’s movement and sensation.

In his creative process, Lee often defies traditional painting techniques. He immerses his body or brush in paint, extending his arms to create lines without directly observing the canvas. This method results in natural lines formed by the body’s movement and structure, contrasting with the conscious vision typical in traditional art.

### Engaging the Audience

Lee’s art is profoundly interactive, often involving the audience as a crucial element of the performance. He believes that art cannot exist in isolation from its viewers. Every action and reaction during a performance becomes integral to the artwork, transforming the audience’s curiosity and engagement into a part of the artistic experience. This interaction not only enriches the art but also encourages viewers to see the world with a renewed sense of curiosity and fulfillment.

When asked about his favorite pieces, Lee highlights “Bodyscape 76-1,” “Bodyscape 76-2,” and “Bodyscape 76-3.” These works showcase his unique approach to art. For instance, “Bodyscape 76-1” was created by painting from behind and above a canvas, allowing only his hands to draw lines. In “Bodyscape 76-2,” Lee painted with his back to the canvas, embracing the unknown and allowing a new world to emerge.

“Bodyscape 76-3” exemplifies art created purely through the movement of Lee’s arms. Standing sideways to the canvas, he allowed the natural limitations of his reach to define the artwork. The resulting lines formed a heart-like shape, an unintended but accepted aspect of the piece. This method highlights the importance of corporeality in Lee’s work, emphasizing the body’s role as a living subject of perception.

### Art as a Universal Language

Lee’s vision of art extends beyond the artist’s sole domain, advocating for a universal appreciation and participation in art. He has experimented with digital interaction, as seen in the “Digital Bodyscape 76-3” project, where visitors could personalize their experience through a digital avatar. At the Gwangju Biennale, Lee invited participants to create art using their own movements, fostering a sense of accomplishment and connection to art.

The role of art in society, according to Lee, is to offer a pause from the fast pace of modern life, encouraging reflection and appreciation for the often-overlooked aspects of existence. Art inspires curiosity and enriches lives, providing a sense of fulfillment that transcends mere visual enjoyment.

### Samsung Art Store: Bridging Art and Technology

The collaboration with Samsung Art Store allows Lee’s experiential works to reach a broader audience through digital platforms. The convenience of viewing art from the comfort of one’s home adds a new dimension to art appreciation. Lee was particularly impressed by the vividness and emotional impact of his work displayed on Samsung’s The Frame at Art Basel Hong Kong. The integration of sound, video, and artist commentary enhances the experience, offering deeper insight into the artworks.

Samsung Art Store provides an opportunity for more people to engage with art, breaking down barriers and inviting viewers to see the world from an artist’s perspective. It’s a testament to how technology can enrich the art experience, making it accessible and meaningful for everyone.

### Advice for Aspiring Artists

Reflecting on his own journey, Lee advises young artists to follow their path with unwavering dedication. He emphasizes the importance of staying true to one’s artistic vision and not being swayed by fleeting trends. For Lee, the essence of being an artist lies in responding sincerely to the spirit of the times while remaining grounded in the present.

The Samsung Art Store continues to expand its offerings, providing subscribers with access to world-class galleries and artworks. It transforms living spaces into dynamic environments, allowing art enthusiasts to curate their surroundings with diverse pieces every day. This platform represents a significant step forward in making art an integral part of everyday life, fostering a deeper connection between artists and audiences worldwide.

Through his collaboration with Samsung, Kun-Yong Lee’s work reaches new heights, offering an immersive and interactive art experience that challenges traditional boundaries and encourages a broader understanding and appreciation of art. This partnership highlights the potential of digital platforms to transform the way we engage with and perceive art, making it an accessible and enriching part of our daily lives.
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