By Honorary Reporter Vincenzo Acampora Carratura from Italy

Photos = Vincenzo Acampora Carratura

With support from the Korean Embassy and Korean Cultural Center in Rome, the exhibition "In Viaggio da 140 Anni" (Journey of 140 Years) opened on July 6 at the Andersen Museum. 

Running until Aug. 31, the event celebrates 140 years of bilateral ties and the Year of Korean-Italian Cultural Exchange featuring 15 Italy-based Korean artists showcasing tradition, culture and history.

While in the Italian capital, I visited the exhibition on the morning of July 12, arriving as soon as the museum opened to enjoy the works in solitude. The collective display embodied the sense of community central to Korean culture. 

The featured artists, who live in Italy, blended their Korean heritage with their experiences in Italy, and the theme promoted understanding and respect across borders.

"Reflection I" by Son Hyun Sook

Entering the exhibition hall, I was welcomed by the "Could Fossils" series by Son Hyun Sook, who studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Rome.

"Viaggio Notturno" (Night Trip) and "Verso la Luce" (Toward the Light) by Joh Gyung Hee

The dreamlike landscapes of Joh Gyung Hee also caught my eye. The moonlit landscapes with dark tones of black and gray and the mysterious and dreamy atmosphere paid homage to Tuscany, where the artist lives.

Sculptures by Kim Hajin, Kim Sung II, Kim Jae Kyong and Kim Hwal Kyung

The sculpture section featured works by Kim Hajin, Kim Sung II, Kim Jae Kyong and Kim Hwal Kyung made from natural and abstract forms of marble from Carrara, Italy, in addition to iron and other materials.

"Pane e Pesce" (Bread and Fish) by Lee Guem Muk

On the walls of the second room, I came across paintings with diverse techniques. A work by Shim Nan Young combined visuals with the Korean alphabet Hangeul.

"Un Pezzo di Desiderio" (A Piece of Desire) by Lee Ji Yeon

Meanwhile, Lee Ji Yeon used symbols and elements of Korean tradition like Hanbok and traditional patterns in her art. Her work was like bringing visitors to a dreamlike reality that was realistic but with an ethereal message.

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.