What is the reality beyond international attention? Bijutsu Techo's January 2026 issue features "The Forefront of Contemporary Korean Art"
Bijutsu Techo's January 2026 issue focuses on the reality of the rapidly developing contemporary Korean art scene.Summary
The January 2026 issue of Bijutsu Techo, titled "The Forefront of Contemporary Korean Art," delves into the reality of the rapidly developing Korean contemporary art scene, which has gained significant international attention. This growth is attributed to the democratization progress since the 1980s and 90s, the establishment of cultural policies, the expansion of new expressions by a new generation, the development of cultural infrastructure, and the success of Korean culture abroad. The feature aims to closely examine the scene's actual conditions by listening to the practices of artists and key players working on the front lines. It will also explore how the political and cultural context of contemporary Korean society influences art, analyzing elements like technology, gender and corporeality, and social critique in artists' expressions. Coinciding with the 60th anniversary of normalized Japan-Korea relations in 2025, the issue seeks regional and international perspectives from Korean contemporary art. Additionally, it includes an interview with Wangechi Mutu, who will participate in the Aichi Triennale 2025, discussing her views on mobility, home, the relationship between nature and humanity, and the role of art.
(Source：美術手帖)