Kang-Hyo Lee is on view at Goldmark Gallery, Uppingham
September 17 – October 15, 2022
Goldmark Gallery is pleased to present Kang-Hyo Lee’s only European exhibition of this year.
Kang-Hyo Lee’s pots are not just beautiful ceramic objects: they are spiritual reflections of the natural world. They have special names – Mountain Water, Forest and The Sky – that hint at the inspirations behind their alternately calm and contemplative, dynamic and dramatic Punch’ong decoration.
Born in Seoul in 1961, Kang-Hyo Lee is widely regarded as one of the finest Korean potters working today. His work is rooted in the major Korean ceramic traditions of Onggi pottery – voluminous storage jars originally designed for holding fermented food – and Punch’ong decoration, where white slip is layered and brushed over grey clay.
Lee’s work derives its strength and energy from his unusual decorative techniques. Dancing to the sounds of traditional, percussive Samul nori Korean music, he applies thick slips in a trance-like performance. Hurling, splashing, and sweeping the liquid clay onto his pot surfaces, initially with ladles, later with his bare hands, he remains totally abandoned to the rhythm of pounding drums.
Lee’s dedication to his decorative processes produces work that is, like its maker, supremely meditative. Scratched and splattered slip marks on a Forest wall piece echo the dappled light of woodland trees; blushes of peach and cream-white on a Moon Jar reflect the luminescence of a full-moon in the early evening sky. Both quiet and vital, powerful and with presence, Lee’s pots are the intimate results of his search for a beautiful life.
The exhibition will be accompanied by a 64 page full colour catalogue and a walk through film hosted by Max Waterhouse which is available 24/7 on the gallery’s website.
Contact
info@goldmarkart.com
Goldmark Gallery
14 Orange Street
Uppingham, Rutland, LE15 9SQ
United Kingdom
