DAEJEON – Renowned Western-style painter Lee Jong-hyeop's solo exhibition, titled "Between Nature and Art: Lee Jong-hyeop," opened on April 24th at the Lee Gong Gallery in Daeheung-dong, Jung-gu. The exhibition will welcome visitors until April 30th, offering a profound exploration of the symbiotic relationship between the natural world and human existence.

At the heart of Lee's artistic philosophy lies the concept of "in between" – a space that transcends the apparent separation of nature and humanity, revealing their intrinsic interdependence. His canvases articulate a vision where the sky and the earth, nature and humankind, are not distinct entities but rather integral components of a vast, interconnected web of life, constantly circulating and influencing one another.

This notion of "between" is vividly portrayed in his works, illustrating how the earth's warmth nurtures the atmosphere, leading to the formation of clouds, which in turn release rain to nourish the seeds on the land. This cyclical process underscores that "between" signifies connection, not division. This perspective resonates with the principles of "symmetrical anthropology," which advocates for an ecological way of life where humans and all other species coexist as equals on this planet.

Within this framework, the contemplation of "boundaries" or "in between" provides a crucial lens through which to reinterpret Lee Jong-hyeop's work. It moves beyond mere aesthetic appreciation of nature, inviting an ecological re-evaluation. In these liminal spaces, Lee opens avenues for ecological reflection, urging viewers to pay attention to the subtle flows, interactions, and resonances that constitute the world. His art prompts a deeper engagement with the delicate yet essential relationships that sustain life on Earth.

Art critic Yoo Hyun-joo commented on Lee's enduring commitment to his artistic vision, stating, "As a member of the nature art group 'Yatoo' (野投) since 1980, Lee Jong-hyeop has consistently contemplated the concept of nature art. His recent works showcase a more transparent aesthetic contemplation regarding nature and the environment. Lee Jong-hyeop's artistic journey of over 40 years can be seen as a gradual fermentation of the aesthetics of nature art."

Lee Jong-hyeop graduated from the Department of Art Education at Hannam University. His distinguished career includes serving as the Director of the Daejeon Museum of Art, an adjunct professor at the Graduate School of Plastic Arts at Hannam University, and a director of the Korea Fine Arts Association. He is also a recipient of the prestigious Lee Dong-hoon Art Award, recognizing his significant contributions to the art world.

This solo exhibition at Lee Gong Gallery offers a valuable opportunity to engage with Lee Jong-hyeop's mature artistic insights, prompting a deeper understanding of our place within the intricate tapestry of the natural world and the crucial connections that bind us all. Visitors are invited to experience the "between" that Lee so eloquently portrays, fostering a renewed appreciation for the delicate balance of our shared ecosystem.