• By: Dan Donovan

Korean Cultural Centre Canada Co-Hosts “Intense Difference of Its Own”

Get ready to be captivated as the Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, along with the Korean Culture & Information Service (KOCIS) and the Korean Cultural Centre Canada (KCC), proudly present Intense Difference of Its Own (Ko: 모두의 어떤차이) at the KCC Gallery. This extraordinary exhibition will run from September 5th to September 29th, and it’s not to be missed!

In a remarkable collaboration with Calgary’s National AccessArts Centre (NaAC), this exhibition shines a vibrant spotlight on marginalized voices, creating a dynamic cultural and artistic exchange between Canada and Korea.

Prepare to be awestruck by the works of 12 exceptional artists, including the likes of Hyunwoo ‘Pixel Kim’ Kim, Michelle Bennie, Carol Harris, Brian Ehnis, and the late, great Korean Canadian sculptor, Won Lee.

Pixel Kim, whose groundbreaking art has been celebrated both nationally and internationally, is known for his pixel-inspired creations that vividly capture his experiences. His “Aurora Math Drawing,” born during his residency in Alberta, Canada, is set to take centre stage.

Another participating artist is the legendary Won Lee, whose bronze sculptures are a testament to his unwavering spirit in the face of adversity. One of his iconic pieces commemorating Congo’s 50th Independence Anniversary graces the Presidential Palace of Congo, a gift from the Republic of Korea. Canada also recognized Lee’s brilliance by acquiring several of his works, which now adorn the Canadian Embassy in Seoul.

The brilliance of the exhibit doesn’t stop there. Artists from the NaAC, including Brian Ehnis, Carol Harris, Michelle Bennie, and the creators of ‘Seven Miniatures,’ Anthony Hodgetts, Rory Berk, Thomas Sinclair, Maddux Ma, Nathan Neutel, Laura LaPeare, and Jamie Petit, all add their unique voices to this symphony of artistic expression.

This exhibition transcends labels and stereotypes, focusing on the sheer artistic brilliance that shines through each creation, regardless of any disabilities. Sungeun Lee, Director of the KCC, summed it up perfectly: “This platform celebrates the unmatched talent and avant-garde spirit of artists with disabilities from both nations. It’s a testament to their potential in pioneering cultural exchanges.”

Get ready to be inspired and amazed at Intense Difference of Its Own. It’s not just an exhibition; it’s a celebration of the boundless power of art and the indomitable spirit of these remarkable artists. See you there!

Public Programs

Opening reception:
Tuesday, September 5, at 17:30/ KCC

Registration https://forms.gle/92t5HJpbctuPsXQi8

Art Workshop with Being Studio Artists:
Thursday, September 7 / KCC

Pixel Kim & Michelle Bennie: Artists-in-Residency:
Wednesday, September 7 ~ Tuesday, September 12 / KCC

For more information on the exhibition, visit https://canada.korean-culture.org/en/1237/board/572/read/124877 or email canada@korea.kr