Seoul: Korean abstract master Kim Whanki, who lived from 1913 to 1974, had already established himself as a significant figure in South Korea's art scene by the time he relocated to New York at the age of 50. A key influence on his decision to move was his encounter with the work of American abstract expressionist Adolph Gottlieb during the 1963 Sao Paulo Art Biennial. This experience left a lasting impression on Kim and partially motivated his move to New York later that year.
According to Yonhap News Agency, this pivotal moment initiated a deep artistic connection between Kim and Gottlieb, now explored in the exhibition "The Language of Abstraction, The Universe of Emotion" at Pace Gallery in Seoul. The dual exhibition presents works from both artists during the 1960s and 1970s, capturing Kim's years in New York. The Whanki Museum notes that during this period, Kim's pursuit of nature's essence evolved into a pure and complete form of abstraction.
Pace Gallery highlighted that Kim immersed himself in New York's vibrant art community, progressively removing figurative elements from his work and refining his style to include dots, lines, and planes. His renowned Dot Paintings series, created during this time, was instrumental in introducing Korean Modernism to a global audience. The connection between Kim and Gottlieb is thought to have arisen from their shared abstract language and pursuit of universal expression beyond cultural limits.
While the depth of their personal friendship is not documented, Kim's journal entries indicate ongoing contact with Gottlieb. In one entry, Kim expressed relief after hearing Gottlieb's voice following news of his illness, as noted by the gallery. The exhibition, organized with the Adolph and Esther Gottlieb Foundation and the Whanki Foundation, features ten of Kim's paintings alongside six of Gottlieb's on the gallery's second and third floors.
Among the showcased works by Gottlieb is "Expanding" (1962), a prominent piece from his Burst series, which features a circular form paired with dynamic brushwork. "The Language of Abstraction, The Universe of Emotion" will open on Friday and continue until January 10 of the following year.