From walls to after Ollejit

Abstract

Recently, Youn selected a subject called "After Ollejit", "After" partly indicates his intention of departing from all works tied to "Ollejit". Furthermore, it suggests a nuance for overcoming the "Ollejit" subject rather than succeeding it. Thus, the artist this time metaphorically expresses his attempt for yet another self-transformation. Discovered in "After Ollejit" is an unexpected, dramatic quality created by the spontaneity of violent impulses and extremely unstable expressions. Consistent acts, and compositions reflecting these acts have disappered. The transformation from the intellectual compositions of restrained emotions shown in his previous works to the whirl of overwhelming expressions is profoundly shocking. If the works from "Cracks" to "Ollejit" are to be read, the recent works "After Ollejit" are to be wallowed in the pouring emotions. Painting with entire body and soul is the most appropriate description for it. The artist is now contemplating on "Anonymous Land", "Anonymous Mountains and Rivers" and "Anonymous Sea" for the titles of his works. Hidden in the unknown land and sea are the metaphors for primitive nature and emotions as well as mysterious colors. Why the naturalism again? Is it another form of utopia to escape from reality? It is certain that there is a spirit toward an idealism of going back to the prototype, just as he wished to return to the source of origin in his memory through Ollejit and the wooden comb. It is premature to categorize these works as contemporary landscape painting or modern oriental paintings. What is depicted are not specific valleys, cliffs or mountains. They are rather the shadows of mountains and rocks, the sound of winds in the forest, and the clear water overflowing in the valley. Instead of admiring nature from far, one is put into nature. Succeeding his ancestors who understood origin through nature, he found a breadth of continuing tradition hidden behind a specific phenomenon. The undeniable fact that he is creating oriental paintings indicates his pursuit for our spiritual heritage that remains alive in oriental paintings.