By Michele Sonen and Joanna Hosaniak | Project leaders
In June 2015, NKHR organized an art exhibition in Seoul’s historic and cultural district, Insadongto increase public awareness about the plight of North Korean refugees. The exhibition—Beyond the Panopticon—highlighted the experiences of North Korean refugees as they escape their country and make the long and difficult journey to South Korea. As refugees in China, North Koreans risk being sent back to North Korea if discovered by Chinese authorities, where they would face punishment and torture.
The centerpieces of the exhibition were three collaborative works by three North Korean and five South Korean students. With mentoring from NKHR, each of the three North Korean students directed the creation of a large chalk drawing on chalkboard depicting an aspect of his or her journey as a North Korean refugee.
The three students—Chungguk, Su Min, and Jin Song—are first year students at one of Seoul’s most well-known art universities, Hongik University. Chungguk arrived in South Korea in 2009, Su Min arrived in 2011, and Jin Song arrived in 2007. They previously participated in educational programs funded in part by NKHR’s Learning Freedom project, such as the Hangyoreh Winter School for North Korean youth. Participating in NKHR’s exhibition was the first opportunity for the three young artists to showcase their talents—it was the first exhibition for each of them.
The process of creating the artwork illustrates an important way in which NKHR’s programs allow North Korean youth to realize their full potential and pursue their dreams. The exhibition’s art directors, mentored the young artists—they worked closely with the students to conceptualize, design, and ultimately create the chalkboards. The art directors—artists themselves—guided the young art students as they considered themes, drew sketches, and made the final products.
Creating the artwork was additionally significant because of the collaboration with South Korean students. Five first and second year fine art students at Dankook University worked hand in hand with the North Korean students. As a result of 60 years of division of Korea, many young South Koreans know little about North Korea and even hold negative stereotypes about North Korean resettlers in South Korea. NKHR programs that are supported by Learning Freedom attempt to address this issue by creating opportunities for North and South Koreans to interact and overcome cultural barriers.
The photo of North Korean young artist, Chungguk standing in front of his art piece "Cross" taken at the exhibition is currently a finalist at the GlobalGiving's photo contest. We will appreciate our supporters' votes! Thank you for your continous support!
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