By Honorary Reporter Preeti Rawat from India
Photos = Jose Javier Serrano

Spanish fine art photographer and graphic designer Jose Javier Serrano, who goes by the pseudonym Yosigo, which means "I continue" in Spanish, will hold his second exhibition in Korea on Sept. 3 at KT&G Sangsangmadang Design Square in Busan.

In 2021, he held his first in the country, "Photographs by Yosigo: Holiday Memories," in Seoul. After discovering his works on social media, I was prompted to reach out to him to learn more about how his photographs represent his love for Korea. In a written interview on July 10, Serrano shared his journey as a photographer.

Jose Javier Serrano is better known by the pseudonym Yosigo.

Briefly introduce yourself
I was born in 1981 and have been a photographer for 20 years, earning a degree in advertising and graphic design. For the upcoming Busan exhibition, I my selected works from 2007-20 and blended themes such as tourism, light and architecture.

These are scenes from the 2021 exhibition "Photographs by Yosigo: Holiday Memories" in Seoul.

How did you react to the popular response to your Seoul exhibition?
I have a huge emotional connection with Korea. I never expected that the public would receive my works so well. It's an honor to have two solo exhibitions in Korea and gratifying to hear that the locals saw a different Korea through my photos.

What is your process for snapping images?
I usually let go of myself, naturally reacting to what catches my attention and following my instincts. I also focus mostly on color. Mundane objects can look marvelous in good lighting, whereas beautiful objects can go unnoticed under poor lighting.

Yosigo says his second exhibition in Korea will show works that combine modern elements with Korea's rich traditions.

Why did you choose Korea as the theme of your exhibition?
I was unable to visit Korea for the first exhibition because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The desire to take photos of the country has since lingered in my mind. When preparing for my second exhibition, I tried to capture daily life where Korea's rich traditions are intertwined with modern elements.

What are you working on now?
I'm traveling and thinking of new ideas for themes and locations to photograph. For example, I'm trying underwater photography with a new underwater camera.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.