Cheonan, Seoul, Jeju City
C.I. Kim is a member of the "Miracle on the Han". A little distant from the epicenter, but a participant and beneficiary all the same. That distance from Seoul and its mad push for growth and development created equally broad-minded projects that spread out from the center of the capitol. Infrastructures grew and expanded, eventually creating conduits that not only fed the center but created outlying locations significant in the resources and services they provided to national expansion. Mr. Kim saw a need within this system and, as many pioneers historically have done, staked a claim on what was a way station along a major transportation route. Extraordinary vision and excellent business acumen enabled economic success but Mr. Kim is not one to fall in line with traditional business behavior. As a proper member of Korea's business captains his passion was relegated to a hobby. Although, as his ventures grew, so did the time and capital he invested in this hobby. Acquiring art for a business is standard practice in Korea and his purchases were accepted as part of the process. The opening of a gallery was viewed as an interesting side venture but that was only a taste of the depths of this man's dedication.
September 30, 2014 marked the opening of three(!) museums in Jeju City. In a seaside neighborhood where casinos and first flight hotels nudge traditional shopping streets, Tapdong Cinema, Tapdong Bikeshop and the Dongmun Motel house thought provoking contemporary art in renovated spaces that used to be empty grey ladies, failed or out of style ventures.
The art covers the widest range to be seen in Korea. From post pop heavy hitters to up and coming conceptual expressionists, the collection reflects not just varied taste but a ravenous hunger for the latest, most challenging imaginings. The buildings alone could stand as unique experiences as Mr. Kim gave his construction crew specific, yet archaic, orders as to their refurbishing. The need for open spaces was tempered by thoughtful observation as to their initial construction and purpose. This precise attention to detail results in a wild ride that overstimulates the senses as it presents engaging work.
Too much to take in. That is all I can say as the evening's experience was pleasantly overwhelming. There is the quality and scope of the art, the location and structures that house the art, the friends, supporters and artists in attendance....too much. The dedication to this hobby is beyond the imaginings of many. The attention to detail as to presentation and the overall viewing experience makes it difficult to critique and analyze. I will have to visit and revisit to examine the many experiences available in the Arario museums in Jeju City and that would still leave Arario in Space in Seoul and the original showcase in Cheonan with its rotating show schedule.
