Meta signal

LEE Bongsik’s art pieces combine rocks found in rivers with time as expressed through the artist’s craftsmanship, ultimately symbolizing the rocks’ intrinsic nature. Over time, the wind, rain, and other natural elements erode, constantly changing their shapes into those that we see everyday. In this sense, rocks can be thought of as pieces of history. Similarly, Lee’s artistic vision and craftwork when turning these rocks into pieces of art leave another mark of history upon these natural artifacts.
It is important to note that the artist’s reshaping of these rocks to align with his artistic vision does not simply remove what was once there and leave behind a void in its place; rather, he fills the space that once was with something new. This space is a representation of the artist’s philosophical purpose and the message he wishes to convey to his audience. In this particular series, Lee focuses on the concept of meta-signals, or familiar symbols that are used in an abstract way to transcend their basic and most commonly understood meanings. For example, Lee uses symbols like commas to represent rest and taking a break. This exhibition offers audiences an opportunity to take a closer look at the narrative of Yullyang-dong's old houses, the time and history contained within rocks, and the integration of meta-signals within this context. Through this experience, audiences can get a better sense of the meaning and purpose behind Lee’s artwork.