Largest-ever Korean art display debuts Sunday

By Vicki Viotti
Advertiser Staff Writer

Korean artist Kimsooja, now living in New York, is reflected in her artwork called "A Mirror Woman," on display at Honolulu Hale for the Crossings 2003 exhibit of Korean art. "Mirror Woman" is an expression of migration. Deborah Booker • The Honolulu Advertiser

The work, initially titled "The Ground of Nowhere," was explained by artist Kimsooja as an expression of migration because the observer is allowed to step into a "virtual space" in the same way that an immigrant enters a new realm. She later retitled it "A Mirror Woman": The curving cylinder of fabric encloses a space floored with a large mirror that reflects the sky.

The exhibition, which will involve 56 Korean artists with works showcased in 10 galleries and other display venues, is part of the yearlong Korean centennial celebration in Hawai'i.

An estimated 60,000-80,000 people are expected to see the exhibitions, said Tom Klobe, "Crossings" coordinator and director of the University of Hawai'i Art Gallery. The final showing closes at Maui's Hui No'eau Visual Arts Center in January.

Reach Vicki Viotti at vviotti@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8053.