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Hong to return with Kim Hong-do show?

 

Leeum Samsung Museum of Art in Hannam-dong, central Seoul opened an exhibition of works by Joseon-period painter Kim Hong-do on March 30.

This permanent exhibition -- not a special exhibition for which Leeum was once known -- is drawing much attention, however the museum is abuzz for other reasons as well.

“Taoist Immortals” by Kim Hong-do (Leeum Samsung Museum of Art)

Leeum has kept quiet and not held any special exhibitions since former director Hong Ra-hee resigned in the aftermath of the Samsung scandal in April, 2008. It has been making unusual moves lately, feeding rumors that Hong may be getting ready to return to power.

The Samsung probe resulted in a three-year suspended jail term for Hong’s husband, Lee Kun-hee, who was charged with tax evasion. He stepped down from the chairmanship of Samsung Group in April 2008 as the prosecutor’s investigation was underway.

The Leeum revealed its new media art collection in October and handed out calendars featuring Kim Hong-do’s works early this year to VIPs (a project thought to have been directed by Hong), and is now holding an exhibition of Kim’s masterpieces.

Art insiders expect that Hong’s comeback could get Leeum back on its feet, as the former director maintained her standing as the most influential figure in the local art scene, even during her two-year absence. However, Leeum officials have repeatedly said that decisions have not been finalized.

Hong majored in applied art at Seoul National University and gained experience as a museum art director in 1995 at Ho-am Art Museum in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province. The museum was established by Samsung founder Lee Byung-chul, Hong’s father-in-law, in 1878 and opened in 1982.

In 2004, Hong established Leeum. The museum, which reflects Hong’s contemporary taste in art, has one of the biggest collections of contemporary art in Korea. It is also a treasure trove of ancient Korean art, including several national treasures.

The newly added exhibition will showcase 18 works by the legendary Joseon painter, carefully selected from the museum’s vast collection.

Kim, known by his penname Danwon, is regarded as the most talented painter of the Joseon period.

Once a court painter for the Royal Painting Academy, Kim was known by all levels of society for his portrayals of Taoist and Buddhist figures, still-life, bird and animal paintings, and landscapes.

He is one of the rare artists who enjoyed tremendous popularity in his own time, as well as lauds today as a master in painting. Numerous high-profile figures of the time formed friendships with him or sponsored him, including King Jeongjo, the 22nd king of Joseon.

“It is a small but fruitful exhibition. The painting ‘Taoist Immortals’ is a must-see,” said Park Min-seon, the museum’s public relations officer.

“Taoist Immortals,” which Kim painted at age 37, features a long parade of hermits. The painting is designated as a national treasure.

Another painting on exhibition, “Tiger and Pine Tree,” was the cover for Leeum’s VIP calendar this year.

The show also includes works by Kim’s son, Kim Yang-ki, and his student Lee Myung-ki, revealing the influence of Kim’s work on the later generation of painters.

The exhibition runs through Oct. 10 at Leeum Samsung Museum of Art in Hannam-dong, central Seoul. Tickets are 10,000 won for adults and 6,000 won for students. For more information, call (02) 2014-6900 or visit www.leeum.org

By Park Min-young (claire@heraldm.com)