Seoul: South Korean artist Kimsooja was recently honored as an Officer of the French Order of Arts and Letters, marking her as one of the distinguished individuals recognized for their contributions to cultural exchange and relations between South Korea and France. This prestigious accolade is the second-highest honor in France's three-tier cultural order.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the award ceremony took place at the French ambassador's residence in Seoul, where Kimsooja was celebrated for her extensive work in fostering cultural connections. In 2017, she had been conferred the "commandeur" rank of the same order, further testifying to her significant impact in the arts.
Kimsooja, a multi-disciplinary conceptual artist, is known for her unique choice to use a singular name, symbolizing a rejection of gender identity, marital status, and socio-political or geographical identity. This decision reflects her broader artistic philosophy as outlined on her official website.
In her acceptance speech, Kimsooja expressed gratitude for the collaborative spirit she has experienced with French artists and cultural figures over the years. "I have been fortunate to realize many monumental projects over the last four decades by exchanging inspiration with the artists and cultural figures in France who have shown unwavering love and support for my work," she said.
Born in Daegu in 1957, Kimsooja has built a remarkable career centered around the exploration of self and connections with the community, nature, and the cosmos. Her work also addresses contemporary social, global, and gender issues.
Kimsooja is particularly renowned for her "Bottari" series, which features installations made from bed covers and clothing. Her artistic journey includes studying lithography at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts in 1984, and she has since been a prominent figure in the French art scene for over four decades.
Last year, she achieved another milestone by becoming the first Korean artist to receive "carte blanche" at the Pinault Collection in Paris, presenting the exhibition "To Breathe -- Constellation," which allowed her complete artistic freedom.