Kun-Yong Lee Partners with Samsung Art Store

A New Artistic Collaboration: Samsung and Kun-Yong Lee

Art has always been a medium that provokes thought and evokes emotion. It poses the intriguing question: is beauty something that is created or discovered? For renowned Korean artist Kun-Yong Lee, the pursuit of this inquiry has been a lifelong journey. His unique approach to art, which involves the physicality of his own body, has allowed him to create works that are both introspective and universally accessible. This article delves into Lee’s artistic philosophy and his recent collaboration with Samsung, which brings a curated selection of his work to the Samsung Art Store.

The Intersection of Technology and Art

Starting June 2, a selection of 15 pieces from Kun-Yong Lee’s extensive body of work becomes available on the Samsung Art Store. This innovative platform is an art subscription service that allows users to access a vast array of artworks on Samsung Art TVs, including popular models like The Frame and QLED. With the service available in 117 countries and offering over 3,500 pieces of art from more than 70 partners in 4K resolution, the Samsung Art Store represents a significant leap in how art is consumed in the digital age.

Kun-Yong Lee, a pivotal figure in contemporary Korean art, has long been at the forefront of the avant-garde movement. His international acclaim began in the 1970s with appearances at prestigious art events such as the Paris Biennale and the São Paulo Biennale. Over the years, Lee has received numerous accolades, including the Grand Prize at the Lisbon International Show and the Order of Cultural Merit. His work spans multiple mediums, including drawing, painting, photography, installation, and performance, all exploring the intricate relationships between the body, medium, and audience.

The Sensory Experience of Lee’s Art

Lee’s renowned "Bodyscape" series finds its origin in a simple yet profound moment. When his young daughter, just learning to walk, accidentally drew a line on the wall with a crayon as she stumbled, it sparked a realization in Lee. Art could be created without a conscious intention to express a specific idea—by simply allowing the body to move naturally. This concept aligns with the philosophy of French philosopher Maurice Merleau-Ponty, who argued that knowledge comes from sensory experience rather than abstract reasoning. Lee’s art reflects this belief, as it is not merely a product of conscious intent but a way for the body to interact with and respond to the world.

In his creative process, Lee often intentionally places himself in unconventional positions. For instance, he might turn his back to the canvas or extend his arms to their furthest reach, creating lines that are determined by the natural constraints of his body. This diverges from traditional painting methods, where the artist’s conscious vision is reflected in the artwork. Lee’s approach, however, emphasizes the organic lines that arise through repeated motion, offering a fresh perspective on artistic expression.

Engaging with the Audience

Performance art has been an integral part of Lee’s career, and he believes that audience interaction is essential for this medium. When viewers engage with the artist’s actions, they become part of the artwork itself. This interaction not only enriches the art but also encourages viewers to see the world with greater curiosity, ultimately leading to more fulfilling lives.

Among Lee’s "Bodyscape" series, his favorites include "Bodyscape 76-1," "Bodyscape 76-2," and "Bodyscape 76-3." These pieces were created using unique methods that differ from traditional painting. For example, "Bodyscape 76-1" was painted from behind the canvas, while "Bodyscape 76-2" involved painting with his back turned to the canvas. These techniques resulted in artworks that emerged from the artist’s physical movements, rather than a preconceived concept.

Art for Everyone

Lee’s philosophy is that art should not be exclusive to artists alone. In 2022, he experimented with digital interaction through a project called "Digital Bodyscape 76-3," where visitors could choose colors and styles to create a digital version of the artwork. At the 14th Gwangju Biennale in 2023, Lee invited visitors to participate in creating art by drawing lines with their arms. This inclusive approach allows anyone, regardless of age or experience, to engage with art and experience the joy of creation.

The Role of Art in Society

In our fast-paced world, art provides a much-needed opportunity to appreciate the often-overlooked aspects of life. It encourages us to find meaning in the process rather than just the outcome, to pause and reflect, and to see the world with fresh eyes. Lee’s art, with its focus on the sensory and the corporeal, invites viewers to engage with the present moment and embrace the beauty of the here and now.

Samsung Art Store: Expanding the Art Experience

Lee sees digital platforms like Samsung Art Store as powerful tools for conveying experiential works. The convenience of viewing art from the comfort of one’s home, combined with the immersive quality of Samsung Art TVs, offers a new way to appreciate art. The digital format also allows for the inclusion of sound, video, and artist commentary, enhancing the viewer’s understanding and engagement with the artwork.

Advice for Aspiring Artists

Lee’s journey as an artist has been one of unwavering dedication to his own path. He advises young artists to remain true to their vision and not be swayed by fleeting trends. The passion to pursue one’s art, he believes, is what ultimately leads to fulfillment and success.

The Samsung Art Store, with its vast collection of high-quality artworks, provides a unique opportunity for art lovers to explore and enjoy art in new and meaningful ways. By bringing the works of artists like Kun-Yong Lee to a global audience, it invites viewers to experience art through the lens of innovation and technology.

In conclusion, Kun-Yong Lee’s collaboration with Samsung Art Store is a testament to the evolving landscape of art in the digital age. It offers an opportunity for audiences worldwide to connect with art in a deeply personal and accessible way, reflecting Lee’s belief that art is for everyone.

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