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Buyong Hwang
Lives and works in Siheung-Si Gyonggi-Do, South-Korea
http://www.buyong.com
A Maestro of Visual Harmony tree’s ancient lineage, its survival through epochs,
In the realm of artistic innovation, Buyong Hwang and its emblematic representation of longevity and
emerges as a distinguished figure, inter t wining resilience. This thematic focus on the ginkgo tree
his rich history with a unique creative vision. At allows Hwang to intertwine his artistic expression
28, Hwang was heralded as one of South Korea’s with profound exis tential reflec tions, creating
top ten graphic designers, an accolade bestowed works that resonate with the timeless interplay of
by a renowned art magazine after consulting with life and nature. Hwang’s creative sanctuary is his
50 university professors nationwide. His prowess home, a modest space where he contends with
was fur ther acknowledged internationally when his artistic musings. Despite the limitations of a
he clinched the second prize at the UNESCO-IAA smaller studio, Hwang finds solace and inspiration
organized International Poster Salon in Paris in 1987. in his surroundings, emphasizing the essence of
This recognition underscored his burgeoning influence introspection and individuality in the artistic process.
in Korean graphic design. Yet, in 2009, Hwang made His approach to painting, a solitary endeavor, is a
a profound pivot, transitioning from a celebrated testament to his belief that great art can emerge from
graphic designer to a full-time painter, ending a any space, regardless of its size. This personal and
33-year chapter in graphic design to embark on a intimate environment is where Hwang confronts and
new artistic journey. Hwang’s transition to painting harnesses his creative energies, crafting pieces that
was not impulsive but a culmination of introspection are not only visually striking but deeply reflective of
and inspiration. In 1995, at an international design his inner world and the broader tapestry of human
conference in Beijing, Colin Forbes’s perspective experience.
on retirement and subsequent life stages triggered The Inspirational Luminaries behind Buyong Hwang
Hwang’s contemplation about his future beyond B u y o n g H wa n g ’s a r ti s tic m e t a m or p h os i s wa s
graphic design. His decade-long spiritual quest in the profoundly influenced by iconic figures in the art
early mornings at church crystallized his aspirations, world. The decision to pivot to painting was catalyzed
leading him to embrace painting at 58. This shift by the life and works of Vincent Van Gogh, whose
was not merely a change in medium but a profound prolific output and enduring legacy left an indelible
realignment of his creative ethos, choosing to explore mark on Hwang. However, it was Georgia O’Keefe’s
new horizons in the vast landscape of art. vibrant and sensual floral canvases that deeply
Buyong Hwang: Echoes of the Ginkgo resonated with him, inspiring him to infuse his
The artistic style of Buyong Hwang is a captivating paintings with a similar vitality and expressiveness.
ex ploration of nature’s intrinsic p at terns and Hwang’s artistic narrative took a new turn after
enduring themes. The ginkgo tree, with its unique encountering the works of Georg Baselitz, a pivotal
blend of coniferous and broadleaf characteristics, figure whose thematic focus on ‘Time’ provided
serves as a central muse for Hwang. His fascination Hwang with a philosophical and thematic framework
TOP CONTEMPOR ARY ARTISTS philosophical, reflecting on the tree’s resilience and artistic dialogues with past masters not only shaped
to explore his own concept of ‘Resurrection’. These
with the gink go isn’t just botanical but deeply
symbolic connection to the concepts of time and
Hwang’s creative approach but also anchored his
existence. Through his art, Hwang delves into the
work in a rich historical and conceptual lineage,
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