The Joy of Korean Journey
The Joy of Korean Journey
Nelson Gallardo Candela - Solo show
Brooklyn Art Cave. Opening August 29, 2024
By Yohanna M Roa
Nelson Gallardo Candela is a discerning observer of his surroundings, and his artistic journey reflects this keen observation. Throughout his travels and projects, both in the United States and abroad, Gallardo has created extensive pictorial documentation. During his stay in Korea from July 2020 to December 2023, he explored and captured various facets of daily life, including elements of traditional folklore. His solo exhibition, "The Joy of Korean Journey," features a collection of 24 paintings that illustrate a distinctive fusion of Fauvism and Korean sensibilities. This style is characterized by strong lines and exaggerated colors, where landscapes are experienced not just visually but through the intensity of hues and shapes. The inclusion of blooming flowers and robust farm structures evokes a sense of continuity, tradition, and the enduring beauty of nature.
Gallardo’s vibrant paintings reflect the lush greenery of fields illuminated by soft morning light, highlighting the profound connection between local people and their environment. His work portrays Korea’s iconic landscapes harmoniously, blending the delicate charm of cherry blossoms—symbolizing the ephemeral nature of spring—with fields that embody enduring agricultural traditions. Other pieces focus on the diverse beauty of Busan’s tea fields, where vibrant rows of tea plants contrast with expansive mountain views. The rich, earthy tones of these fields and the vivid greens of the tea leaves celebrate the region’s agricultural heritage, illustrating the intersection of tradition and modernity through dynamic color and texture.
In "The Kkwaenggwari," Gallardo captures the essence of traditional Korean folk dance observed in Suwon. The dancer, adorned in vibrant traditional attire with elaborate headgear, embodies Korea’s cultural richness and deep-rooted traditions. Similarly, "Guardian of Tradition" depicts a serene moment in Iksan, South Korea, featuring a father dressed in traditional Korean hanbok and the characteristic gat, a wide-brimmed hat that symbolizes Korean cultural identity. Another notable work, "Memories of the Sea," presents a sweeping visual journey across Korea’s picturesque coastlines. Each panel captures a distinct coastal location, from the tranquil shores of Jeju to the bustling ports of Busan, and from the serene Yellow Sea to the inspiring sunrise of Gangneung.
A significant group of paintings is dedicated to traditional markets, where Gallardo captures the vibrant and industrious atmosphere. Women are prominently featured in these works; for instance, in "Busan Fish Market," a woman dressed in traditional Korean attire meticulously handles the catch of the day. In many coastal communities in Korea, particularly in Busan, roles within the fishing industry are traditionally defined. Men venture out to sea to catch fish, while women manage sales at the market, ensuring that the fruits of their husbands' labor reach the tables of families and restaurants throughout the region.
Another notable series, created in oil pastels, includes medium and small formats traditionally used for sketches that capture significant details. Gallardo’s sensitivity to this technique transforms these sketches into exceptional pieces that encapsulate the scenes, colors, and atmospheres of his daily experiences in Korea. This series portrays the serene landscapes of rural Korea, where traditional agricultural practices continue to shape the land.
Nelson Gallardo Candela’s exhibition, "The Joy of Korean Journey," offers a profound exploration of Korea through a unique artistic lens. From the lush fields and bustling traditional markets to the dynamic tea plantations and stunning coastlines, Gallardo’s paintings reflect both the enduring beauty of Korea’s natural environment and the deep connection between its people and their traditions. His nuanced use of color and form captures the essence of various scenes while evoking a sense of continuity and transformation within Korean culture. Through this diverse body of work, Gallardo invites viewers to appreciate the intricate balance between tradition and modernity, providing a vivid testament to Korea’s cultural and natural heritage.
Nelson A. Gallardo (born in Colombia, 1981) has received notable recognition, including the gold prize at the 7th International Biennial of Kanagawa, the special award from the Seattle - Korean American Artist Association in 2024, a scholarship from the Departmental Institute of Fine Arts of Cali for his artistic talents. After beginning his studies in physics at the Universidad del Valle in Colombia, he moved to the United States in 2002, where he joined the U.S. Army While living in Germany, he had the opportunity to study classical art and later pursued a degree in administration management and strategy at Berkley College. In 2017 and Construction Management Specialization from Columbia University in 2023, he joined the FSG team as a project manager. Since July 2012, he has lived in NYC, continuing his artistic studies independently, including the use and history of korean traditional paper "hanji" in Suwon south Korea.
