Olyaa Gallery Presents 'Echoes of Nature'
Olyaa Gallery is excited to announce its upcoming exhibition titled
'Echoes of Nature,' featuring a stunning body of work by esteemed South Korean artist
Youngsup Han. With a career spanning over five decades, Han's innovative approach to art combines traditional Korean techniques, particularly
Hanji, a paper-making method, with contemporary themes, resulting in a captivating dialogue between the old and the new.
A Reimagining of Nature
Youngsup Han's exhibition is not just a showcase of his artwork; it serves as a window into his artistic journey, reflecting his meditative thought processes. Known for utilizing the ancient technique of
Takbon (a rubbing method), Han transforms the subtleties of nature into emotive compositions. His artistic practice accentuates the beauty found in fleeting moments, like the soft silhouette of grass, the unique texture of bark, and the shimmering light on stones. In essence, he captures nature's quiet details and converts them into visual poetry.
As noted by Annie Kim, the
Director and Co-Founder of
Olyaa Gallery, “Han’s work reminds us that true innovation often lies in returning to the essence.” This perspective invites viewers to consider the layers of time, culture, and beauty that define contemporary art, urging them to explore connections that transcend modernity.
The Artistic Process
At the heart of Han's artistry is the process itself. He layers raw
Hanji over real-world elements, such as bark and twigs, whereby the act of pressing or tapping becomes a ritual that harmonizes his internal world with the external environment. This meticulous layering results in art that resonates with emotional and spiritual significance, where each piece invites contemplation and reflection.
His distinctive tapping method not only serves as a technical skill but embodies a meditative practice, capturing the essence of nature’s energies and encapsulating them in art. Han’s works are a testament to the philosophy that creativity lies in simplicity and a deep understanding of one’s surroundings.
Recognition and Influence
Youngsup Han has been recognized for his exceptional contributions to the art world. He is a three-time award winner at the
Osaka Triennale and holds numerous accolades, including the
Prize of Excellence from the
Hyogo International Competition of Painting. His works have been exhibited across prestigious venues, such as the
National Museum of Contemporary Art in Korea, the
Hanbyeokwon Museum, and the
Solomon Guggenheim Museum, marking him as one of the leading contemporary Korean artists.
His recent creations, inspired by his travels in the United States, bring parallels between the serene landscapes of rural
Korea and the expansive American terrain, inviting viewers to see nature through his unique lens. As remarked by the
Hanbyeokwon Museum, the work possesses an overwhelming physical presence that evokes “not noise, but quiet resonance,” suggesting a profound silence felt within the echoes of nature.
About Olyaa Gallery
Founded by Annie Kim, alongside collaborators Esther Kim, Heajin Lee, and Amy Rosado,
Olyaa Gallery is an essential hub for innovative artists whose practices navigate the intersections of tradition, modernity, and cultural exchange. Located in
North Bergen, NJ, the gallery offers free admission and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 AM to 5 PM.
Visitors to the gallery can look forward to the upcoming art fair in conjunction with
North Bergen Township taking place on
July 26–27, 2025. Olyaa Gallery continues to foster a vibrant artistic community, celebrating artists like Youngsup Han who reinterpret the world around us through their creative practices.
For inquiries, please contact us at
contact@olyaagallery.com or call 201-450-1298.