Olyaa Gallery Presents 'Echoes of Nature': A Tribute to Hanji Master Youngsup Han

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.

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