Generations of Artistry: Korean Modern and Contemporary Artists and Their Descendants Exhibit Together

Gallery NOW in Seoul's Sinsa-dong is currently hosting a unique exhibition, 'Legacy: Inherited Time,' that delves into the fascinating world of artistic inheritance in Korea. This show brings together the works of 13 prominent Korean modern and contemporary artists and their descendants, offering a rare glimpse into how artistic talent and vision are passed down through generations.

One of the most captivating displays features the three generations of artists from the family of the beloved national painter, Park Soo-keun. His iconic textured depiction of a woman with a fruit basket is shown alongside his son Park Sung-nam's recent work, which echoes his father's compositional style while emphasizing a thicker texture, and his grandson Park Jin-heung's abstract pieces that interpret nature through refined imagery. This familial artistic dialogue is a central theme of the exhibition.

The exhibition also showcases the enduring influence of master painter Oh Ji-ho, whose vibrant landscapes are reflected in the works of his sons Oh Seung-woo and Oh Seung-yoon, and even his grandsons Oh Byung-ok and Oh Byung-jae. Similarly, the surreal, hyperrealistic still lifes of Lee Seok-joo are juxtaposed with the lively pop art of his daughter Lee Sa-ra, creating an intriguing contrast. The distinct styles of Chun Kyung-ja, known for her solitary female figures, and her daughter Sumita Kim's contemplative abstract paintings, also offer compelling comparisons.

Beyond these prominent families, the exhibition includes works by master traditional ink painter Huh Heon and his grandson Huh Jin; sculptor Kim Se-jung, famed for the Admiral Yi Sun-sin statue, alongside his son Kim Beom and daughter-in-law Yoo Hyun-mi; and photographer Kim Han-yong and his son Kim Dae-soo. 'Legacy: Inherited Time' is more than just an art show; it's a profound exploration of Korean artistic heritage, demonstrating how tradition and innovation coexist and evolve within families. From the perspective of Hankyoreh, this exhibition is a significant cultural event, celebrating the continuity and dynamism of Korean art history and offering a unique local perspective that highlights the deep-rooted connections between artistic legacies and national identity.