By Honorary Reporter Foteini Chatzoudi from Greece

While exploring the Ikseon-dong neighborhood of Seoul last year, I was captivated by the sculpture Mello, a gift to Korea in 2021 from its creator Steven Harrington. 

This year, the Los Angeles-based artist is holding his first solo exhibition "Stay Mello" from March 7 to July 14 at the Amorepacific Museum of Art in Seoul. 

A pioneer in psychedelic pop art, Harrington is known for his vibrant style with a portfolio that includes installations, prints, books and sculptures shown globally in cities like Los Angeles, New York, Paris and Berlin. He has also collaborated with brands like Nike, Coca-Cola and Medicom Toy.

Because of my interest in both his exhibition and his work, I interviewed him via email from March 12-15, excerpts from which are below.

Los Angeles-based artist Steven Harrington poses with his works. (Steven Harrington)

Since 2019, I've discussed with the Amorepacific Museum of Art on the timing of this exhibition. The culmination of these talks led to the perfect opportunity to showcase my collection. Having my first solo exhibition at a museum in Korea is thrilling. I've long admired the Korean art scene and Seoul's curation. After years of development, I'm thrilled with the outcome and eager to share it with Seoul.

How did you select the works for this exhibition?

I'm very aware that the majority of the audience might not be familiar with my work or even know who I am as an artist. So I wanted to create an experience where viewers get to know my work through the exhibition.

The museum and I aimed to introduce viewers to my recent works in the first room. Following this, they'll delve into the behind-the-scenes sketches of my creative process. Guests will explore my past works including print making alongside sketches and drawings in one room. In another, they'll encounter collaborative projects, design endeavors and brand collaborations. The exhibition's flow will guide viewers through my creative process and diverse aspects of my life as an artist.

What have the reactions of visitors to your Seoul exhibition?
Overall, they appear to enjoy themselves and feedback has been positive. I look forward to observing their responses over time considering that the exhibition recently opened. I encourage all interested guests to visit in person as art truly comes to life when experienced firsthand.

Steven Harrison's sculpture Mello stands in the trendy Ikseon-dong neighborhood of Seoul's Jongno-gu District. (Foteini Chatzoudi)

What inspired your figure Mello and why did you give it to the city?

Created in 2015, Mello was conceived as a universal character transcending ethnicity, age and gender. Evolving into a symbol of subconscious thought, he possesses self-awareness and recognizes joy and satisfaction in his creative endeavors.

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, I installed a permanent sculpture in Seoul. Despite the hurdles, the final piece depicting Mello offering a pink tulip aimed to bring light and positivity to Korean audiences during tough times.

Have you incorporated Korean elements into your work and what are your plans?
At my Seoul exhibition, I showcase wall installations of sketchbook pages and drawing journals. Among them are sketches incorporating Korean elements and architecture from past visits to Seoul. Who knows, perhaps these elements will inspire future paintings.

As I create my works by hand, I'm always planning projects and exhibitions well in advance, typically six months to a year ahead. Despite this continuous process, I'm excited to pause and appreciate this exhibition. I look forward to seeing visitors again in spring at the museum and relishing the warm months in Seoul with my friends and family.

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.