#United States #New York #Korean Culture #Chang Ucchin #Korean Art

Introduction

The Korean Cultural Center New York proudly presents "Chang Ucchin: The Eternal Home," marking the first solo exhibition of this influential artist in New York City. Taking place from May 7 to July 19, 2025, this exhibition not only showcases the depth of Chang Ucchin's art but also invites spectators to engage with the emotional and spiritual themes that permeate his work.

The Artistic Journey of Chang Ucchin

Chang Ucchin, regarded as a seminal figure in Korean modern art, was born in 1917 and passed away in 1990. Throughout his life, he cultivated a distinctive visual language characterized by a sense of innocence and playfulness while encapsulating the beauty of everyday life. His paintings, often rooted in themes of home, nature, and familial connections, create a serene dialogue between memory and imagination.

One of the highlights of this exhibition is Golden Ark, a celebrated art book published in 1992. This book is significant as it marks the first authorized publication by the Limited Editions Club featuring a Korean artist. The volume includes twelve of Chang's own paintings, deliberately selected prior to his death, showcasing the extensive range of his artistic vision. By inviting visitors to interact with an original edition of Golden Ark, the exhibition aims to offer an intimate glimpse into Chang's philosophical and aesthetic engagements.

The Exhibition: Key Works and Highlights

The exhibition comprises various elements, including limited edition prints from Golden Ark as well as artworks that have rarely been displayed. The collection includes poignant pieces such as A Family Portrait (1972), A Tree and Pavilions (1977), and The Persimmon Tree (1987). These works not only highlight Chang's contemplative approach toward daily life but also express a deep emotional resonance that many can relate to.

Moreover, the exhibition features contemporary digital works inspired by Chang's art, notably the celebrated Self-portrait (1951). This integration of technology with Chang's traditional art speaks to his enduring influence on contemporary artists and the evolution of modern art itself.

The Significance of the Exhibition

Hee Sung Cho, the curator, emphasizes that this exhibition is the most concentrated look at Chang Ucchin's artistic world ever shared with an international audience. As global interest in K-culture rises, it's essential to recognize the profound emotional depth and aesthetic contemplations that artists like Chang represent. His art invites us to reflect on life through values of restraint, harmony, and inner peace—elements at the heart of Korean cultural identity.

Kyung Soo Chang, the artist's daughter and Honorary Director of the Chang Ucchin Museum of Art Yangju, shared insights into her father's artistic journey. She discusses how Chang navigated the complexities of cultural transitions, conveying universal beauty, goodness, and life's essence through his work.

The Korean Cultural Center: A Cultural Hub

Founded in 1979, the Korean Cultural Center New York serves as a vibrant hub for promoting Korean culture in New York City. This center is committed to fostering cultural and artistic activities including exhibitions, performances, and educational workshops, enhancing cultural dialogue between Korea and the global community.

Conclusion

The exhibition "Chang Ucchin: The Eternal Home" is not just a showcase of art; it's an invitation to explore the emotional depth and philosophical inquiries embedded in Chang's work. Visitors can enjoy a unique opportunity to reflect on life through the lens of one of Korea's vital modern artists. For further details about the exhibition and cultural activities, please visit the Korean Cultural Center’s website or follow them on social media._