The Korean Cultural Center Los Angeles (KCCLA), in partnership with LAUNCH LA, proudly presents an open call exhibition, Divergent Synthesis, which will open with a reception at the Korean Cultural Center Art Gallery (located at 5505 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036) from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 2, 2024. Jurors Virginia Moon and Peter Frank reviewed over 1,300 images from over 300 artists in a blind jurying process. Their careful selection resulted in 40 art pieces created by 34 artists that authentically and compellingly echo contemporary life today.
List of the selected 34 artists:
Sharon Allicotti Andrée B. Carter Hyunsook Cho Jinhee Choi Rebecca Waring-Crane Jennifer Faist, Michael Flechtner Zo Frampton Dellis Frank Diego Borgsdorf Fuenzalida Marian Galczenski Nikolas Soren Goodich Arthur Golding, Elizabeth Gorcey Julie Green, Shizuko Greenblatt Kaitlyn Jiwon Hahn Chiho Harazaki Peter Hess Diane Holland Wayne Hunt Sangjin Kim Mary Lai Rich Lanet Tom Lasley Randi Matushevitz Katie Middleton Da Aie Park Ann Phong Tom Pazderka Dusty Rose Nellie King Solomon Jason Thompson Christopher Lloyd Tucker
There is a scientific definition for the complex molecular process of divergent synthesis combining differing components to create a new generation of compounds; but KCCLA & LAUNCH LA are approaching it on a conceptual level -- more reflective of contemporary art and inspired by our culture. Divergent Synthesis brings together artists from across Southern California whose practices meld an array of experiences, backgrounds, influences, media, materials and/or methods to create a new and cohesive piece of art. These artists and their works reflect our times and provide an authentic lens to view, interpret, and document contemporary culture.
Director Sangwon Jung said, “In this open call group exhibition, over 300 artists submitted 1,300 works, and through fair judging, 40 works by 34 artists were ultimately selected for the final exhibition. This wonderful exhibition will be a great occasion to appreciate the diverse artistic expression from Southern California artists, and this event brings us together to truly appreciate cultural diversity in Southern California.” The exhibition is open to the public, and the show will run until May 31st, 2024.
JURIED by Virginia Moon and Peter Frank
DR VIRGINIA MOON is currently the Associate Curator of Korean Art at LACMA. She received her BA in Art History from Yale University, her Master’s Degree in East Asian Studies from Harvard University, and her PhD in art history from the University of Southern California.
PETER FRANK is Associate editor for Visual Art Source and former Senior Curator at the Riverside (CA) Art Museum, He has served as Editor of THEmagazine Los Angeles and Visions Art Quarterly and as critic for the Huffington Post, Angeleno magazine, and the L.A. Weekly. LAUNCH LA believes exposure to the arts enhances quality of life and strengthens community through the shared appreciation of creative expression in all its forms and hybrids.
LAUNCH LA is passionate about providing artists with quality opportunities to present themselves and their creations that reflect our times to a curious and enthusiastic audience at important happenings throughout Los Angeles.
The Korean Cultural Center, Los Angeles (KCCLA) Operated by the Korean government's Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Korean Cultural Center is dedicated to providing insights into the rich cultural heritage of Korea. We encourage everyone to visit and learn something new about a nation with a history spanning more than 5,000 years.