Chun, Kwang-Young (2004). Aggregation 06AU44 [mixed media, including Korean mulberry paper]. The Kim Foster Gallery, NY.

A strong downward thrust is created by the arrangement of the ellipses across the bottom half of the picture plane. This thrust is supported by the slight lines that are mingled with the upper texture. Eye movement is dominated by the large ellipse in the bottom right quadrant, even though it seems to be built of negative space. My guess on this work’s message is Chun is inspiring, or attempting to visually create, a sense of tension, or time, in the viewer. | 

The subject is the elements used to build the composition: ellipses, tiny rectilinear forms and texture. The creator is from Korea, and the message is strongly tied to his culture (or upbringing, rather). Mulberry paper is wrapped around tringles to create the image, which were hung in clusters of his family-owned pharmacy. The illusion of depth is an important part of the “meaning” of this work.

A handful of elements build this composition: ellipses, rectangles and a warped grid of lines combine to create value and texture. A strong impression of space is built through a handful of methods. The build-up of the angular forms diminish as the eye travels upward. Cast shadows are created by the curved figures. In actuality, this work is flat, however the illusion of depth can only be described as perfect.

Asymmetry characterizes this work’s sense of pictorial balance. It is in constant, downward motion, in an unending state of tension. Balance is the single word that describes this work best. Contrast is used effectively: large, negatively spaced ellipses clash against tiny, positively-spaced rectangles. The full value range is used.

The dominant shape contrasts particularly well against the edges and perpendicular angles created by the PF. The source of light and cast shadows seem to place the viewer at an angle below the composition. An alternative assessment places the viewer high in the air, looking down at the landscape of an unknown expanse.

Eye movement is dominated by a single ellipse that clashes against the entire composition. Secondary areas are created through the implied elevation created by shadows and crisp edges. Elemental treatment (shape, line) support the creation of a “second generation” of elements (value, texture). This, combined with exquisite directional thrust and trompe l’oeil, create a truly unified work.