Artist Pushes Paint Through Hemp for Striking Art

In the early 1970s, Korean artist Ha Chong-Hyun, now 91, revolutionized painting by developing the 'back-pressure method'. This technique involves pushing oil paint through the back of stretched hemp fabric, creating striking abstract works. He titles each piece 'Conjunction,' signifying the union of artist and material, followed by the date of creation.

Ha's minimalist approach, characterized by single, muted colors and the use of hemp—chosen initially due to post-war scarcity—is central to the Dansaekhwa movement. This influential group of Korean artists, including Lee Ufan and Park Seo-Bo, gained international recognition in the 2000s.

Ha's art, while sometimes compared to Western minimalism, possesses a deep cultural specificity tied to his experiences during Korea's turbulent history. His decades-long practice has seen evolution, incorporating elements like flame singeing and brighter colors, demonstrating a continuous drive for experimentation.

Works by Ha Chong-Hyun are currently on display at the Lisson Gallery in London through November 7th, following his first North American museum retrospective in San Francisco. He remains committed to his art, stating, "As long as my health allows me to stand in the studio, I want to keep working."