Ulsan art market offers 'No. 1' sized works for 110,000 won

The Ulju Culture and Arts Center in Ulsan, South Korea, is hosting a unique art market that is drawing attention for its focus on "No. 1" sized artworks – canvases roughly the size of two postcards. This initiative, now in its third year, aims to make art collecting more accessible and to foster a direct connection between local artists and the public.

The current exhibition features 440 pieces created by 168 artists active in the Ulsan region. Each artwork is uniformly priced at 110,000 won (approximately $80 USD), regardless of the artist's established reputation. This pricing strategy allows both seasoned collectors and first-time art buyers to acquire pieces by mid-career artists or emerging talents at an affordable rate.

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The No. 1 artwork is a process that requires more thought about how to capture it on a small screen, and it's a process of self-growth.

A significant aspect of the market is its charitable component. With the consent of the artists, 10,000 won from each sale is donated to the Community Chest of Korea (Love's Fruit). This dual purpose of supporting local artists and contributing to a good cause has resonated with visitors, leading to strong sales. As of May 28, 142 pieces had already been sold, with blank spaces on the walls filled by photos of the sold artworks and brief messages from their new owners.

The "No. 1 Art Market" holds a dual meaning: referring to the small "No. 1" canvas size and symbolizing the "first" experiences for both artists and buyers. It represents artists' first exhibitions or sales and buyers' first acquisition of original artwork. The event's growing success is evidenced by its expansion from 80 artists and 247 works in its inaugural year (2024) to the current scale. It also received a grand prize from the Korea Cultural Arts Centers Federation's excellent program competition last year and will participate in the Ulsan International Art Fair.

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I was deeply moved to feel real art that many people can enjoy and even collect in their daily lives. I want to actively participate if there are more opportunities like this in the future.