Page 3 - 이한 화랑미술제 2025. 4. 16 – 4. 20 코엑스 A30

빛의 리듬(Rhythm of light), 38x53cm, 옻칠(ott-Painting on canvas)

Artistic Statement: LEE HAN
(Excerpt from a critique by art critic Park Young-In)
“Rhythm of Light” is the central theme of Lee Han’s work. He captures the image of a festival
on canvas, engraving in the heart the harmony of gentle and joyful light.The artist discovered
rhythm in the ever-changing light that enters through windows and settled on the theme
by expressing the forms of light transmission using transparent lacquer.The primary material
in his work—Ott (Korean lacquer)—has profound properties. This traditional medium,
derived from sap extracted from lacquer trees, exists in two refined types: black lacquer
and clear lacquer. Lee Han’s distinctive style lies in his sophisticated use of both.From the
royal tomb of King Muryeong of the Baekje Kingdom, lacquerware has endured for over
a thousand years—testament to lacquer's exceptional preservation, water resistance, and
durability.Utilizing these unique characteristics, the artist visualizes various phenomena he
perceives in light and names them “rhythms.” Through lacquer, he renders shifting forms
of light on canvas, seeking and achieving profound inner resonance and value.This visual
style is a new, creative pursuit—translating the waveforms of light into rhythm was no easy
feat.Inspired by the fireworks and festivals of his childhood, he completed these works with
a high degree of originality.“Rhythm of Light,” the result of years of refinement, is a striking
visual harmony of black and clear lacquer—and one that invites lasting attention.

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