Straniamento: Korean Contemporary Art at Florence's Le Murate

The exhibition titled 'Straniamento' at Le Murate in Florence, overseen by curators Jiyoung Lee and Kko-kka Lee, delves into themes of estrangement and familiarity through the lens of Korean artists. It critiques the concepts of exoticism and reality, embodying the 'Yuhakseng' philosophy that reflects Koreans' experiences of internationalization via overseas education, in opposition to the divisive politics of the 1960s military regime. Seoungwon Won's photography archives contemporary life, drawing inspiration from Paul Virilio. Yiyun Kang’s work intertwines physical and digital realms, resonating with Mark Poster's ideas. Chan-hyo Bae's photographs, such as 'Existing in Costume. Henry VIII' (2012), tackle identity and stereotypes, influenced by Homi Bhabha's concept of 'mimicry.' Minjeong Geum's 'Breathing Door' and Sungpil Han's pieces investigate the interplay between the virtual and the real, while Kim Jongku's sculptures reflect on loss. The exhibition ultimately suggests that discomfort can lead to personal growth.