▲ The exhibition poster
The retrospective solo exhibition of Korean woodcut artist Lee Chul Soo, commenced with its opening reception on Tuesday, on 1 August, at the Korean Cultural Centre in South Africa (KCCSA) located in Pretoria.
▲ The exhibition hall, Korean Cultural Centre SA
Lee Chul-Soo, born in 1954 in Seoul, South Korea, is a renowned woodcut art master, using visual and verbal poetry to convey universal messages. His works keenly observe daily events, embracing local, national, and global themes. In the 1980s, he played a significant role in a public movement, reshaping reality through printmaking and integrating woodcuts into publishing. His exceptional talent and visionary perspective were showcased in his debut solo exhibition, “Chul Soo Lee’s Prints” at Seoul’s Kwanhoon Gallery in 1981.
▲ Jungbum Chun, Director of KCSSA, giving a welcome speech
In the late 1980s, Lee Chul-Soo settled in Jecheon, Chungbuk Province, balancing farming with his mesmerizing woodcut prints that capture human relationships with nature and the global community. Lee Chul Soo’s art is showcased in major cities globally, offering a unique perspective on spirituality, Zen philosophy, and the essence of human existence. As Co-CEO of the Korea Federation for Environmental Movement, his passion for peace and the environment is evident in his work.
▲ David Krut, Founder of David Krut Projects—the South Africa's leading arts institution, delivering a congratulatory speech
In 2023, Lee Chul Soo celebrates the 42nd anniversary of his remarkable debut. Throughout nearly four decades, his unwavering dedication to the craft has brought forth profound insights into life’s intricacies and our interconnectedness with the world. He remains committed to meaningful causes, supporting civil society organizations through private exhibitions and fundraising events.
▲ Visitors appreciating the artworks
This exhibition explores Lee Chul Soo's varied oeuvre, with a total of 29 works spanning from the 1990s to 2020s following the life trajectory of the artist, under the title of “Wood & Ink.”
▲ Printmaker Sbongiseni Khulu from David Krut Workshop presenting a printmaking demonstration and the participants
The opening reception held on Tuesday was attended by about 50 visitors including artists and practitioners of the South African arts scene, was accompanied by side events such as a screening of short films introducing the artist's world, and a special print demonstration led by South African print artist, Sbongiseni Khulu.
▲ Lee Chul Soo
In a heartfelt letter sent to the South African audience, the artist remarked, “This exhibition is a precious effort and suggestion to understand each other,” expressing his hope that the audience “will be able to meet ‘us who have a heart-to-heart conversation.’” through his work.
▲ Participants trying Korean food at the opening reception
The exhibition will continue until 30 November, and the printmaking demonstration event will be available through an online registration. The exhibition is closed on weekends and public holidays.
For more information about the exhibition, visit our website at https://sa.korean-culture.org/en.