The light of truth, illuminated by art, an exhibition commemorating Seoul National University’s 77th anniversary, was held outside the Seoul National University Museum of Art (SNUMoA) on October 11th. This particular exhibition was unique in that it focused on the relationship between art and the different levels of the educational system. According to Curator Oh Jinyee, while previous commemorative displays have taken the conventional approach of introducing SNU’s rich history, The light of truth, illuminated by art, instead reflected upon the question of social roles that should be taken on by higher institutions.
Sunwoo Hang’s Homage to the School of Athens installed on the outer premises of SNUMoA
The central piece of the exhibition was a reproduction of Raphael’s celebrated artwork titled The School of Athens, featuring the greatest philosophers, mathematicians, and scientists within a single setting. While staying faithful to the original, Sunwoo Hang’s Homage to the School of Athens applies a modern twist to traditional fresco mural techniques. The director of SNUMoA, Shim Sang-yong hoped that the art piece and its grandeur, wisdom regarding love, and auspicious energy would resonate within this hall of knowledge.
The name of the exhibition itself–The light of truth, illuminated by art–is also imbued with profound meaning. According to Curator Oh, it was inspired by a combination of SNU’s official slogan and the phrase “illuminated by art,” thus communicating that art plays a substantial role in the gathering of truths in academic disciplines. In addition, the installation pieces were situated outdoors, in an unorthodox manner, to emphasize the university’s will in reflecting upon its academic exploration and commitment to positively contributing to society.
Overview of Homage to the School of Athens
Curator Oh hopes visitors left the exhibition contemplating the manner in which SNU will continue to forge its path forward in education and in society.
Source: https://www.snu.ac.kr/snunow/snu_story?md=v&bbsidx=144444
Written by Hee Seo Lee, SNU English Editor, heeseolee@snu.ac.kr