Space776 New York is pleased to present a two-person exhibition featuring the works of Gio Yang and Jiyoung Park. This exhibition unites contemporary perspectives that are deeply rooted in traditional Korean art techniques, highlighting the interplay of tension and harmony between past and present by blending cultural heritage with modern identities.

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Both Gio Yang and Jiyoung Park, who live and work in Seoul, Korea, integrate traditional Korean methods with contemporary expression, crafting a dialogue between individuality and modern society. Yang’s introspective paintings created using traditional Korean materials, delve into themes of solitude and depict a metaphorical island—a space for the self to rest and heal from the demands of reality. Through this imagined island, Yang invites viewers to experience a place of reprieve and comfort, offering a retreat from the complexities of society. Park reimagines abandoned materials, such as hardened residues of East Asian traditional ink, transforming them into pieces that challenge conventional narratives. Her process reflects our intimate connections to seemingly insignificant objects, uncovering their potential to convey natural meanings and forms. 

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This exhibition is hosted by Koreanection, an initiative dedicated to connecting people through the universal language of culture. Founded on the belief that culture is one of the most powerful ways to unite people across the globe—transcending prejudice and political barriers—Koreanection highlights the work of emerging Korean artists deserving of a broader platform. By showcasing paintings created with traditional Korean techniques and materials, the initiative underscores how young artists can use these methods to express their perspectives on contemporary society.