By Sa Eun-young
Staff Reporter
The meeting between modernity and tradition is always an intriguing topic, and increasingly more artists search for unique approaches and different art forms to explore this fusion. Likewise, veteran artist Lee Bo-suk explores cultural identity through pieces that engage traditional icons with a fresh approach.
Lee's original pieces are on display at a solo theme exhibition ``Arirang-Hangeul 2007'' at the Chosun Ilbo Museum in Seoul. It runs through Oct.1.
Lee's works are strongly rooted in Korean culture, yet she shows willingness to embrace new methods as well as different cultures. Lee once wrote that she is able to seek and compare other artworks because of the firm base in her own culture.
Accordingly, the artist's contemporary works overflow with the spirit of traditional Korea. Her oil paintings reinterpret men and women in hanbok, or Korean traditional costumes, portraying scenes from the Choson Kingdom era(1392-1910).
The painting techniques that Lee employs, however, are nonetheless modern. She takes a figurative approach, surrounding her figures with contemporary icons, patterns and contrasting colors for emphasis.