Jeong Young-joo: Whispers of Home, Hanji Tapestry of Warmth and Belonging

When I first saw her paintings, it felt like someone was hugging her with light.
that soft warm hug like feeling made me feel alive again.
 
Today I wanna intoruce Jeong Young-joo to you guys@@

"City-Disappearing Landscape," Hanji on canvas, acrylic, 193.9×130.3 cm, 2016

 
Part 1: Introduction to the Artist
Jeong Young-joo, a prominent South Korean artist, has captivated audiences worldwide with his mesmerizing depictions of the quaint village of Dal Dongne Panjachon. Through a meticulous process that involves sketching on canvas, manipulating and layering traditional Hanji paper, and applying acrylic paint, Jeong breathes life into fading landscapes.

"Memory 626", Hanji on canvas, acrylic, 162×130.3 cm, 2023

Part 2: Unveiling the 'House Paintings'
Jeong's oeuvre, often referred to as 'House Paintings,' delves deep into the essence of home. He begins by sketching the intricacies of homes on canvas, followed by the delicate process of adorning them with Hanji paper. This fusion of Eastern materials with Western abstract techniques, reminiscent of the Papier collé method, defines Jeong's distinctive artistic approach.

" a purple dream 131", Acrylic and paper on canvas, 73x91cm , 2023,

 
Part 3: The Essence of Hanji in Jeong's Art
The incorporation of Hanji in Jeong's work is a testament to his deep connection with Korean culture. It was during his studies in Paris that Jeong wholeheartedly embraced this traditional paper, using it to infuse a unique character into his

"Summer Nights 620". Paper on canvas, acrylic, 80.3 x 116.8 cm, 2022.

abstract creations. Hanji, with its raw yet warm and resilient nature, resonates profoundly with the artist's own journey of resilience and transformation.

"White World 0125". Paper on canvas, acrylic, 80 x 180 cm, 2022.

Jeong's art serves as a poignant reminder that amidst the ebb and flow of life, homes stand as steadfast symbols of warmth and belonging. Through his craft, Jeong endeavors to create a sanctuary, much like the welcoming embrace of a hometown, inviting viewers to find solace in his creations. His mastery of light and shadow, coupled with the painstaking process of layering and coloring, brings forth a three-dimensional vitality that transcends the confines of the canvas.

Hakgojae Gallery, " Another World", 2022.

🌟 Why Jeong Young-joo 's Art Captivates Me 🌟

Captivated by the artist's portrayal of the disappearing village. The process of sketching on canvas, using hanji, and acrylic paints adds depth to the fading landscapes. The fusion of Eastern technique with Western influence is striking. The use of hanji, with its rugged yet warm and resilient qualities, beautifully mirrors the essence of Korean culture.

The artist's journey from personal turmoil to creating a sanctuary through art is truly inspiring. The evolving style, from concrete to abstract, reflects a profound exploration of the artist's emotions. The depiction of "vanishing landscapes" resonates deeply. The juxtaposition of the warm, emotional portrayal of the village against the harsh reality it represents is masterful. The artist's connection to their roots and the way they infuse their own experiences into their work is profoundly moving. The houses, though small and unassuming, exude a sense of unity and warmth, reminiscent of one's homeland. The play of light in the artwork adds a magical touch, transforming ordinary alleyways into a source of comfort and nostalgia. The artist's use of the papier collé technique with hanji brings a unique texture and depth to the pieces.

The deliberate creases on the paper surface, juxtaposed with the warmth of the light, evoke a sense of comfort and beauty. The artist's portrayal of the village is a poignant reminder of the power of art to transcend time and space. Each piece is a testament to the artist's dedication and patience, creating a three-dimensional experience for the viewer.

The depiction of the sky, blending with the village, is especially striking, resembling a horizon over the sea. The crescent moon, a recurring motif, hints at a sense of potential and growth. The collective, huddled nature of the houses imparts a sense of familiarity and tenderness. The artist's desire to offer viewers a haven of comfort akin to a hometown is palpable.

Through their work, they've crafted a space where one can find solace in the midst of life's trials and tribulations. The genuine, handcrafted quality of the pieces resonates deeply, inviting viewers to step into a world created not by pixels, but by human hands. The use of hanji, a material rooted in Eastern tradition, adds a layer of depth and emotion to the artwork. While not flashy or technologically advanced, there's a quiet strength in the artist's creations, reflecting an understated yet robust Eastern aesthetic.

refer to Jeong Young-joo IG
https://instagram.com/joung_youngju?igshid=MWZjMTM2ODFkZg==