Acclaimed Korean-born mixed media artist Chong Gon Byun gives found and discarded objects new meaning by using them to create sculptures and assemblages that explore the clash between post-industrial civilization and the present consumerist culture. In this installation, the walls of the combined residence and studio are lined with shelves and cabinets stuffed with books and objects of every description: African and oceanic masks, totems, skulls, musical instruments, ornate frames, mirrors, images and replicas of Castro, Ho Chi Min, Marilyn Monroe, and Mickey Mouse, as well as reproductions of Leonardo’s Mona Lisa, his Last Supper, and esoteric 17th century Italian paintings, all jostle with globes of the world, plastic fruits and flowers, stuffed parrots, metallic insects, lamps, vintage appliances, springs, coils, and mannequin heads and bodies. The space itself is the artwork and it is from this treasure trove that Byun draws inspiration and constructs his witty and poignant works.
Byun’s installation will be complemented by the commissioned short film, Byun, Objet Trouve, by director Marie Losier.
Exhibition co-presented with The French Institute Alliance Française’s CROSSING THE LINE
Dates
September 17–November 6
Admissions
Free
Location
The Main Gallery
51 Bergen St.