Kim Hak-kyun, a distinguished artist with academic roots in Korea and the United States, has established himself as a prominent figure in the art world through a career spanning decades. Graduating with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Korea, he furthered his education in the United States, earning a master’s degree from Lehman College in 2003. Since then, he has been actively engaged in artistic endeavors across New York and Korea, garnering acclaim and recognition for his exceptional talent and contributions to the field.

Kim’s artistic journey commenced with notable achievements in the early 1990s, marked by victories in various art exhibitions. His inaugural solo exhibition in 2000 paved the way for over a hundred team competitions, showcasing his versatility and prowess in the realm of contemporary art. Noteworthy accolades include the prestigious Young Artist of the Year award at the Art Forum Newgate in 2003 and the Lehman College Award for Outstanding Artist in 2007.

Throughout his career, Kim Hak-kyun has participated in esteemed invitations and exhibitions, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the global art scene. His involvement in events such as the 2021 “Art and Gallery” invitation and the 2022 “UHM Gallery” invitation underscore his international reach and significance as an artist. Moreover, he has curated numerous exhibitions at his own gallery, “Sia New York SIA NY,” situated in Manhattan, showcasing both domestic and international artists and fostering cultural exchange.

In his upcoming exhibition at The Gallery Nine in Samcheong-dong, Kim Hak-kyun explores the theme of “kainos” and “newness,” delving into the intrinsic value of the familiar yet unrealized. Through his distinctive style, characterized by pop art aesthetics, Kim breathes life into iconic figures such as “Super Baby” and “Super Dog,” employing vibrant primary colors and whimsical imagery to evoke a sense of joy and whimsy.

Central to Kim’s artistic narrative are recurring motifs of rainbow-shaped arches and clouds, serving as symbolic elements representing hope and renewal. Through his series “Super,” Kim delves into the human experience, particularly in the wake of the pandemic, portraying themes of resilience and spiritual rejuvenation. Rooted in the concept of “Super,” his work explores humanity’s boundless aspirations, from the pursuit of health and power to the quest for transcendence and eternal life.

Drawing inspiration from philosophical discourse on the “superhuman,” Kim reimagines the concept through the lens of human revival and redemption. In his portrayal of “Super Baby” and “Super Dog” standing atop planets, he symbolizes the collective journey of mankind towards renewal and the divine promise of life, as exemplified by the biblical narrative of Noah’s Ark and the covenant symbolized by the rainbow.

In essence, Kim Hak-kyun’s art serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of hope and faith. Through his vibrant and thought-provoking compositions, he invites viewers to contemplate the complexities of existence and the transformative potential of embracing the “super” within each of us.