Gotjawal, a unique Jeju word combining got (forest) and jawal (a terrain where trees, vines and rocks are densely intertwined), refers to one of the island's most remarkable ecological treasures. Formed atop rugged basalt fields created by ancient volcanic activity, the forest emerged as diverse plant species naturally took root among irregular lava rocks.
Its distinctive geological characteristics help maintain a stable internal climate, allowing northern and southern plant species to coexist within a rare ecosystem. Gotjawal also serves as a vital groundwater reservoir for Jeju Island, making it an environment of exceptional ecological and conservation value.
The Jeju Museum of Contemporary Art has continued to spotlight the value of Jeju's natural environment through exhibitions that interpret the island's landscape from multiple perspectives. Among them is Gotjawal: Time of Breath, which opened on June 2 at the Media Art Hall of the Public Storage for Art Works and will welcome visitors through September 27.
The immersive media-art exhibition is divided into three sections projected throughout the exhibition space.
The first chapter, Birth of the Forest, visualizes the beginning of a primeval ecosystem through the image of sprouts emerging from narrow crevices in barren basalt rocks.
The second chapter, Forest of Life, employs trails of light and waves of sound to create abstract representations of guardian spirits and wildlife inhabiting the forest. Through this sensory experience, visitors are invited to feel the vitality that permeates the woodland.
The third chapter, Seocheon Flower Garden, draws inspiration from a mythical realm in Jeju folklore where flowers governing human fortune and destiny are believed to bloom. By intertwining this legendary landscape with the resilient life force of Gotjawal, the exhibition transforms the space into a digital flower garden.
Rather than merely recreating natural scenery through technology, the exhibition revives Jeju's oral traditions within an immersive environment, presenting the island's history and mythological imagination through a contemporary visual language.
The virtual media experience is connected to Gotjawal: Forest Embracing Time, an exhibition held in the museum's main building. Through paintings, sculptures and other works, participating artists reflect on the lives and memories of Jeju residents amid landscapes shaped by thorny vegetation and volcanic rock formations.
Together, the digital media installation and fine-art exhibition present Gotjawal not as something to be conquered or consumed, but as a living environment worthy of mutual respect. Experiencing both projects offers visitors an opportunity to reflect on Jeju's identity and the enduring grandeur of nature.
Reported by News Culture M.J._mj94070777@nc.press
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