[News] "侍天與民(Si-cheon-yeo-min)" connects from Donghak to "the spirit of May."

GU Bonju's sculpture Gapo Peasant War 2 is a masterpiece that candidly depicts the harsh lives of workers and farmers. With oversized feet anchoring firmly to the ground to find balance, its muscles and bones are sculpted with striking realism, creating a form that, while arguably unrealistic, exudes an almost lifelike energy. The figure, with a fierce gaze and a bamboo spear pointed skyward, seems as if it could come to life at any moment. This work represents the fiery artistic spirit of the sculptor, who tragically passed away at the age of 37 in 2003. Rooted in Donghak’s philosophy of "Innaecheon" (the belief in the divinity of humans), it encapsulates a deep understanding of historical struggles and embodies the essence of the exhibition Si-cheon-yeo-min, currently on display at the Gwangju Museum of Art until December 1st.

September 22, 2024