The Korea Disability Arts & Culture Center said Tuesday it will mark April 20, the Day of Persons with Disabilities, with a slate of exhibitions and a performance at three venues in Seoul: the I-eum Center in Daehangno, Modu Art Space and Modu Arts Theater.
The programs are designed to present a broad look at disability arts across history and contemporary practice.
At the I-eum Center, the special exhibition “History of Korean Disabled Artists — People Who Became a Path” will run from April 20 to May 10. The center said it is the country’s first archive-style exhibition to trace the lives and work of disabled artists from the Joseon Dynasty through the modern era and into the first generation. Built around 38 figures, it follows the historical development of disability arts using records and source materials.
At Modu Art Space, the planned exhibition “The Art of Relationship: Willingly, Relentlessly, Leaning On” will open April 16. It approaches disability arts through relationships and collaboration, exploring creative possibilities that expand through close solidarity. Six artists and teams, including Kim Jin-woo, Dungji and Raumcon, will present works in formats such as painting, installation, performance and participatory programs.
On April 20 at 7:30 p.m., Modu Arts Theater will host the commemorative performance “Modu’s Concert: Together, Spring.” The concert is a crossover stage rooted in Korean traditional music, featuring disabled artists and other performers in a program blending traditional and contemporary elements.
Performers include gayageum player Seon Yeong-suk, piano byeongchang performer Choi Jun, pansori singer Heo Jeong, the samulnori group Ttamdtti, the Dream On dance company, Gyeonggi folk singer Lee Ji-won and the fusion gugak band Akdan Gwangchil. Gugak musician Oh Jeong-hae will serve as host.
Chairwoman Bang Gwi-hee said the Day of Persons with Disabilities should be more than a commemoration and should serve as a chance to view disability arts anew within today’s culture. She said she hopes the events will connect disability arts with more audiences and provide a place to share its value.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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