"PROMENADE" - 522 W 19th Street, New York

Where do we come from, who are we, and where are we going? 

These fundamental questions are at the heart of the practice of South Korean artist HK Kwon. A successor of the Dansaekhwa Movement, known for its monochromatic painting approach and neutral colors, Kwon invites visitors to a moment of contemplation. Defining himself as a "walking painter," he develops a unique body of work where each canvas is born from both meditative reflection and physical action. Through repeated gestures, applying layers of oil with his fingers, he constructs horizontal and vertical sequences on the canvas. Underneath these layers, the attentive gaze uncovers a tiny, almost invisible reality. Time becomes a central element in his creative process, with some works requiring over a year to dry, demonstrating the patience and commitment the artist dedicates to each work of art. 

Born in Seoul in 1977, Kwon discovered at the age of 10 that painting would be his preferred way of communicating with the world. He studied Oriental painting at Dankook University and furthered his practice in obtaining a master's degree from Hongik University. It is through this education, combined with an early artistic sensitivity, that he has developed a unique language, halfway between tradition and modernity. Today, his work is exhibited in international galleries, notably in Paris, Seoul, and New York. 

At SLAG&RX Gallery, his exhibition entitled Promenade brings together paintings and sculptures in an open space, connected to both the street and the inner courtyard. This configuration invites the visitor to a truly meditative stroll, oscillating between abstraction and figuration. 

HK creates a dreamlike, choreographic universe with the aim of revealing a landscape that is both emotional and sensory. Influenced by Buddhism and Taoism, he questions the relationship between the self and the other, between the present and the future. Through his art, he also explores memory and nostalgia, often inspired by his personal experiences. This approach invites deeper reflection on the individual's place in a world of constant change. In doing so, Kwon not only creates visually remarkable compositions but also fosters a dialogue on the complexities of identity in today's society. 

HK Kwon's art stands out for its ability to merge a personal narrative with universal themes, making his work accessible to a wide audience. Whether through intricate details or subtle chromatic variations, Kwon invites the viewer to reflect on their own experiences and perceptions of the world around them.

 —Hervé Mikaeloff

“Promenade” will be on view at SLAG&RX New York from November 16 to January 4. The Opening Reception for “Promenade” will be on Saturday, November 16, from 5 -7 PM.

The exhibition is curated by the esteemed Hervé Mikaeloff.