ARARIO GALLERY CHEONAN presents a comprehensive exhibition showcasing the artistic legacy of Unbo Kim Ki Chang (1914-2001), a pivotal figure in modernizing traditional Korean painting. The exhibition offers a thorough survey of Unbo’s seven-decade career, featuring 99 works by the artist, alongside six pieces by his wife, Woohyang Park Re Hyun, and one collaborative work.
Born in Seoul in 1914, Unbo lost his hearing at the age of seven due to typhoid fever complications. This auditory impairment, however, did not hinder his artistic journey. In 1930, he began studying under Idang Kim Eun-ho, a master of traditional Korean painting. Unbo’s talent quickly became evident when he was selected for the 10th Joseon Art Exhibition in 1931, marking his formal debut in the art world. His recognition grew, culminating in receiving the prestigious Changdeokgung Prize at the Joseon Art Exhibition in 1937.
Throughout his career, Unbo continuously pushed the boundaries of Korean painting, experimenting with various styles and techniques. His early works focused on realistic figurative art, but post-liberation Korea saw him exploring Cubist tendencies and semi-abstract works reflecting daily life. The 1950s marked a significant period in his artistic development, with the creation of “The Life of Jesus” series, which reinterpreted biblical themes through a Korean lens.
Unbo’s artistic evolution continued with his exploration of abstraction through Munjado (Pictorial Ideograph) in the late 1950s. This period also saw the rise of his renowned Hwajo Yeongmodo (Paintings of Birds, Flowers, and Animals) series, characterized by vigorous brushwork and bold compositions. Notable works from this period include “Horses” (c. 1950-1960s) and “Night Birds (Owls)” (1972), which exemplify his dynamic style and ability to transform emotions into powerful visual expressions.
The 1960s marked Unbo’s full embrace of abstraction, contributing significantly to the modernization of Korean painting. Following the passing of his wife in 1976, he developed the Babo Sansu (Foolish Landscape Style) series, influenced by the aesthetic of Minhwa (Korean Folk Painting). The 1980s saw the creation of his Cheongrok Sansu (Blue and Green Landscape Style) series, featuring mountainous landscapes dominated by deep blue-green hues.
The exhibition also highlights the artistic dialogue between Unbo and his wife, Woohyang Park Re Hyun, whom he married in 1946. Their collaborative work, “Wisteria and Sparrows” (1950s), showcases their complementary styles and shared vision for modernizing Korean painting.
Unbo Kim Ki Chang’s legacy is characterized by his continuous experimentation and dedication to evolving Korean painting. His ability to overcome his hearing impairment and transform it into a unique aesthetic strength earned him lasting respect in the art world. The exhibition at ARARIO GALLERY CHEONAN runs from February 18, 2025, to March 22, 2026, offering visitors an extensive look at the life’s work of this influential Korean artist.
