The World Art Festa, a festival for artists, opened today.
Featuring 130 galleries from 8 countries and approximately 2,000 artworks.
It’s a rare opportunity to encounter the diverse worldviews of global artists within a single space at COEX.
But the larger the exhibition, the more you can’t help but wonder: ‘Where should I start?’
That’s why we’ve prepared this.
Key points for viewing the World Art Festa.
1. Salvador Dalí Special Exhibition
This is the main exhibition where this year’s World Art Festa has put the most effort. Approximately 80 actual works by the surrealist master, Salvador Dalí, are being unveiled en masse.
This vast collection could be displayed thanks to the collection of Pierre Argyle, a publisher and art collector who collaborated with Dali for nearly half a century.
A notable highlight during the event, running through this Sunday, is the visit of Christine Argyle, the curator of the Argyle Collection and daughter of Pierre Argyle. This offers a rare opportunity to delve deeper into the stories behind the works and the significance of the collection.
2. ‘Boomerang Artist’ Seok Dong-mi
The most thrilling moments in an exhibition often come when encountering participatory artworks. These pieces, where visitors become an extension of the artist’s hand to complete the work together, offer an unforgettable experience that transcends mere viewing.
Seok Dong-mi’s boomerang installation carries the message: “A heart thrown out will surely return.” Much like the famous line from the drama Stairway to Heaven, “Love comes back!”, it seems to offer comfort, suggesting we shouldn’t hold onto regret for feelings already expressed.
Visitors can also participate by creating their own boomerangs.
The moment it becomes someone’s heart and hangs in the space, the work is finally complete.
3. Elizabeth Langritter
Good art seems to possess the power to instantly transport people elsewhere.
I believe the true power of art lies in its ability to transport my emotions, my gaze, and my spirit beyond reality, simply through the act of viewing.
The work of Australian artist Elizabeth Langritter embodies this.
Langritter’s canvases, expressing the beauty of everyday life through three-dimensional textures, gift a moment of peace, as if returning from a vacation.
I recommend simply surrendering yourself to the peaceful, carefree world within her canvases. It might just be the most relaxing experience amidst the bustling festival crowds.
4. ‘PROJECT EASY’: My Art Collection Starting at 500,000 Won
“What if the heirloom my grandfather left me turned out to be a work worth hundreds of millions?”
It’s a pleasant fantasy anyone might have had at least once.
Art, much like stocks, doesn’t have its lifetime value determined by its current price. What if I were to discover a work that represents an era among artists not yet widely known?
‘PROJECT EASY’ introduces works by emerging artists, selected through open submissions, priced at 500,000 won or less. Who knows? The art collection I start today might be worth billions to my descendants. Trusting my artistic instincts once in a while isn’t such a bad idea.
5. Nancy Lang Solo Booth
Better known as a broadcaster, Nancy Lang clearly asserts her identity as an artist through her solo booth at this World Art Festa.
Her personal pain and narrative, which she has openly shared, are fully embodied in her work.
Some might dismiss her art as superficial due to her public image.
But the ability to command attention is also one of the essential qualities of an artist.
If you wish to encounter Nancy Rang as a sincere and earnest artist, beyond her glamorous broadcasting image, this Festa is your opportunity.
Beyond this, diverse works gathered in Korea from around the world await visitors.
If you wish to broaden your artistic horizons in one space, getting lost for a moment at the World Art Festa is highly recommended.
Kids’ art classes based on French art appreciation methods are also offered,
offering parents and children alike a day filled with art.