Kim Whan-Ki

Place: Kijwa

Born: 1913

Death: 1974

Biography:

Kim Whan-ki, also known as Kim Whanki, was a pioneering abstract artist from South Korea. He was born in the village of Eupdong-ri on the island of Kijwa, of Anjwa-myeon, Sinan County, South Jeolla Province in Korea under Japanese rule. His art is characterized by diverse hues and patterns, transitioning from semi-abstract paintings to deeply absorbed abstract art filled with lines and spaces.

Early Life and Career

Kim Whan-ki lived and worked in various cities and countries, including Tokyo, Japan; Seoul and Busan, Korea; Paris, France; and New York City, USA. His nomadic lifestyle and exposure to different cultures significantly influenced his artistic style, which balances Korean values and foreign techniques. He is considered a pioneer of abstract painting and the godfather of the Dansaekhwa movement in Korea.

Artistic Style

Kim Whan-ki's art is characterized by its use of geometric forms, non-objective compositions, and a balance of Korean values and foreign techniques. His paintings, such as Untitled, showcase his unique ability to evoke emotions through vibrant colors and geometric shapes. The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, USA, has several of his works on display.

Influences and Legacy

Kim Whan-ki's work was influenced by various artists, including Wassily Kandinsky, who is known for his abstract art and innovative use of colors. Kim Whan-ki's legacy continues to inspire artists today, with his works being displayed in museums such as the Hepworth Wakefield in Wakefield, United Kingdom.

• Abstract Art: Kim Whan-ki was a pioneer of abstract art, and his work continues to influence artists today.
• Dansaekhwa Movement: He is considered the godfather of the Dansaekhwa movement in Korea, which emphasizes the use of geometric forms and non-objective compositions.
• Geometric Abstraction: Kim Whan-ki's art is characterized by its use of geometric forms, which has become a hallmark of his style.

Kim Whan-ki's work can be found on https://Wikioo.org, where his paintings are displayed in a 3D format, allowing viewers to browse and examine his works in detail. His legacy continues to inspire artists today, and his work remains an important part of the abstract art movement. In conclusion, Kim Whan-ki was a pioneering artist who played a significant role in shaping the abstract art movement in Korea. His use of geometric forms, non-objective compositions, and balance of Korean values and foreign techniques have made him a legendary figure in the art world.