Hur Jun’s “Walking on the Clouds” is included in the exhibit. (photo courtesy of Jeonnam Museum of Art)

The Korean Cultural Center Los Angeles, in collaboration with Jeollanamdo Province, presents the special exhibition “Flowing Wind, Blowing Waves” from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Thursday, Oct. 31, in the KCCLA Art Gallery, 5505 Wilshire Blvd.

The exhibition, held in the United States for the first time, introduces the beauty and excellence of Korean ink painting to the American art scene. It also promotes the upcoming 2025 Jeonnam International Ink Biennale, featuring 10 large-scale works from the Jeonnam Museum of Art that blend traditional and contemporary elements of Korean Sumukhwa.

Sumukhwa, which translates to ink wash painting, embodies the harmony between nature and humanity, highlighting the depth of simplicity. The shared cultural heritage across Asia, particularly in Korea and China, will be featured in a diverse array of works. The exhibition showcases traditional techniques and contemporary approaches, exploring themes of everyday life, spirituality and expanded artistic expression.

The concept of “saui“ (sketching the intention) in traditional Korean painting merges realism and abstraction, offering a dynamic interplay of energy (chi). The exhibition features work by 10 prominent contemporary Korean artists including Hur Jun, Huh Daljae, Jo Yongbaek, Kim Hodeuk, Laurent Grasso, Kim Sundoo, Kim Seungyoung, Kim Chenil, Jo Byeongyeon and Kim Hyungjin.

“This exhibition was planned to promote traditional Eastern ink painting and celebrate the forthcoming 2025 Jeonnam International Ink Biennale,” KCCLA director Sangwon Jung said. “We hope visitors will immerse themselves in the unique lines and colors of Korean ink painting and that its charm will spread throughout the U.S., starting here in Los Angeles.”

The exhibition is open to the public. KCCLA is located at 5505 Wilshire Blvd. For information, visit kccla.org.