A new non-profit contemporary art space, Space ZeroOne, has officially opened its doors in New York City's Tribeca neighborhood. This new venue, an initiative of the Hanwha Foundation of Culture, aims to foster global artistic collaboration and provide a vital platform for emerging Korean artists to engage with the international art world. The inaugural exhibition, "Contours of Zero: Emerging Korean Artists in New York," began on November 7.
Key Takeaways
- Space ZeroOne is a new non-profit contemporary art venue in Tribeca, New York.
- It serves as a platform for emerging Korean artists to gain international exposure.
- The inaugural exhibition features eight Korean artists exploring technology and identity.
- The name "ZeroOne" symbolizes potential and realization, and eternity in Korean.
- The Hanwha Foundation of Culture expands its global commitment to arts.
A New Hub for Korean Contemporary Art
Space ZeroOne represents a significant expansion of the Hanwha Foundation of Culture's long-standing dedication to cultural exchange and artist support. Located in Tribeca, a recognized center for art and culture in New York, the space is strategically positioned to connect Korean artists with a global audience.
The foundation has a history of promoting international dialogue and innovation through various partnerships, residencies, and exhibitions across Asia, Europe, and North America. This new New York venue solidifies that commitment, creating a base for cross-cultural artistic endeavors.
Fast Fact
The Hanwha Foundation of Culture is also establishing the Centre Pompidou Hanwha Seoul, a major new art museum in collaboration with the Centre Pompidou, which will feature exhibitions from the Pompidou’s collection.
Inaugural Exhibition: "Contours of Zero"
The opening exhibition, "Contours of Zero: Emerging Korean Artists in New York," showcases approximately 20 artworks. These include paintings, sculptures, and installations. Eight emerging Korean artists contribute to this diverse collection, exploring themes at the intersection of technology, materiality, and cultural identity.
The artists featured in this exhibition reflect various aspects of contemporary society. Among them are Jungki Beak, Jiyoung Yoo, and Jihee Kim, who are alumni of Hanwha’s Youngmin International Artist Residency Program. Other participating artists include Junghae Park, Jeenho Seo, Minjung Song, Kai Oh, and Khia Hong.
"Space ZeroOne will serve as a meaningful milestone in establishing the foundation’s presence in New York’s contemporary art scene," said Sungsoo Lee, Chairman of the Hanwha Foundation of Culture. "The union of ‘Zero’ and ‘One’ symbolizes our wish for artists’ creative journeys to continue endlessly and embodies Space ZeroOne’s commitment to walking alongside them on that path."
The Meaning Behind ZeroOne
The name "ZeroOne" holds symbolic significance for the new art space. The concept of "zero" is often associated with emptiness. However, in this context, "Zero" signifies latent potential – the fundamental ground from which new forms and connections can emerge.
Conversely, "One" represents the realization of that potential. The combination of the Korean word for "zero" (yeong) and the English word "one" forms "yeongwon," which translates to "eternity" in Korean. This duality symbolizes the ongoing creative journeys of the artists and the Foundation’s enduring support for their work.
Cultural Bridge
The opening of Space ZeroOne comes at a time when Korean contemporary art and culture are gaining significant international recognition. This new venue is expected to further strengthen cross-cultural networks and showcase Korea’s dynamic creative ecosystem to a global audience.
Experimental Installation and Future Vision
Beyond the main exhibition, the mezzanine level of Space ZeroOne features an installation by artist Hong Seung-Hye. This piece transforms the area into a geometric, abstract lounge. It explores art that can be both used and inhabited, challenging traditional notions of art's functional role.
This experimental installation also expands Space ZeroOne’s spatial identity, creating an immersive experience for visitors. The space aims to be a venue dedicated to emerging voices, encouraging risk-taking and fostering dialogue across diverse cultures.
Supporting Artists Globally
Space ZeroOne supports emerging and underrecognized artists worldwide, including Korean and Korean diasporic practitioners. It also engages with the broader contemporary art community in New York through exhibitions, commissions, and public programs.
The Hanwha Foundation's Legacy
The Hanwha Foundation of Culture has a rich history of supporting artists. One notable program is the Youngmin International Residency Grant. This grant, established through a bequest from the late Mrs. Seo Young Min, wife of Hanwha Chairman Kim Seung Yeon, offers emerging Korean artists opportunities to participate in leading residencies globally.
These initiatives collectively reflect Hanwha's commitment to building a sustainable arts ecosystem. They also aim to strengthen cultural dialogue across international borders. The opening of Space ZeroOne is a significant step in this ongoing mission, bringing fresh perspectives and creative energy to the heart of New York's art scene.
The foundation believes that providing a platform for these artists helps them develop their skills and gain crucial international exposure. By fostering these connections, Space ZeroOne contributes to a more interconnected and vibrant global art community.