The Jeju Museum of Contemporary Art will host “Gotjawal: A Forest Holding Time” from April 10 to June 28, presenting an exhibition that explores the ecological significance and historical context of Jeju’s forests through contemporary art.
The exhibition brings together approximately 60 works across painting, Korean traditional art, and craft. Participating artists — Kang Dong-gyun, Kim Mi-kyung, Kim Jin-sook, Kim Hyun-soo, Lee Yong-won, Cho Yoon-deuk, and Heo Moon-hee — each offer individual interpretations of Gotjawal, focusing on its environmental characteristics and cultural associations.
Rather than treating the forest as a simple landscape, the works address themes such as the regenerative qualities of nature, the relationship between local communities and the environment, and the distinct terrain formed by volcanic rock and dense vegetation. These elements are presented through varied artistic approaches.
“Gotjawal” is a Jeju dialect term combining “got” (forest) and “jawal” (dense undergrowth). The area is characterized by irregular lava formations created through volcanic activity, supporting diverse plant ecosystems. It is also recognized for its ecological value, including its role in groundwater recharge and as a habitat for various species.
The forest is also associated with aspects of local history. Residents have traditionally used the area for gathering fuel and medicinal plants, and during the Jeju 4·3 Incident, it functioned as a place of refuge. These historical and environmental layers contribute to the broader significance of Gotjawal.
The exhibition aims to provide an opportunity to consider the relationship between nature, time, and human experience through artistic interpretation, while offering a structured overview of Gotjawal’s multiple dimensions.
Reported by News Culture M.J._mj94070777@nc.press
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