Jaeheon Lee Embraces Haunting Beauty in ‘Ghosts in the Garden’

As a seasoned gamer who’s spent countless hours immersed in the digital worlds of art history simulations, I can confidently say that Jaeheon Lee’s “Ghosts in the Garden” exhibition at Management in New York City is a must-see for any connoisseur.


At Management in New York City, Jaeheon Lee debuted his initial solo exhibition titled “Ghosts in the Garden.” This collection of oil paintings offers an insightful exploration into the psyche of a society as it bids farewell to its history while seeking purpose amidst an unpredictable tomorrow.

Lee’s paintings carry an emptiness, yet their arrangements are far from sparse. In his “Three in One” series, multiple faces merge and seep into one another over elaborate costumes, while the intricate abundance in ‘Figure in a Garden’ radiates a palpable unease.

In Lee’s artwork, there’s a constant struggle between adhering to past values and embracing contemporary trends. Drawn from the conflict between representational and abstract art that was prevalent in 1960s Korea, he paints a vivid image of a society wrestling with its heritage while dealing with the demands of a fast-paced, materialistic world. Despite his home country’s slide into a state of emotional detachment, his work refuses to succumb to desolation. Every stroke on his canvas holds the burden of history and the hope for change, providing a profound reflection on individual and communal identity.

During the display, the artist encourages visitors to embark on an introspective journey about culture – a journey that aims to prompt reflection to fill a void. The artwork fluctuates between concepts of past and present, as Lee delicately investigates the complexities of holding onto, letting go, and progressing all at once.

The exhibition is now on view in New York through December 29, 2024.

Management
39 E Broadway 404,
New York, NY 10002

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2024-11-19 18:25