Nonorientable 91 — Kim Bong-tae
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Kim Bong-tae

NONORIENTABLE 91

Dimensions
180.0 x 180.0 cm

Explore Kim Bong-tae's abstract masterpiece, NONORIENTABLE 91, a vibrant vision of cosmic harmony inspired by ancient philosophy; discover this profound piece today.
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Explore the abstract art of Kim Bong-tae (b. 1937), a leading South Korean artist who revitalized abstraction in Korea. Known for bold brushstrokes, vibrant colors & influences from Western Expressionism and traditional Korean art. Discover his work
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Quick Facts

  • Artistic style: Abstract Expressionism
  • Influences:
    • Taiji
    • Bagua
  • Title: NONORIENTABLE 91

Art Quiz

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:
What philosophical concept heavily influenced the creation of 'NONORIENTABLE 91'?
Question 2:
What does the title 'NONORIENTABLE 91' literally translate to, according to the artwork's description?
Question 3:
In the painting, what color is used to symbolize the empty space of the universe?
Question 4:
Kim Bong-tae's artistic style is noted to be deeply rooted in which art movement?
Question 5:
What geometric shapes are explicitly mentioned as being present in the composition alongside the main blue circle?

The Cosmic Tapestry: Exploring Kim Bong-tae's "NONORIENTABLE 91"

To gaze upon Kim Bong-tae’s NONORIENTABLE 91 is not merely to look at paint on canvas; it is to confront the very concept of existence. This monumental work invites the viewer into a breathtaking, almost overwhelming vision—a depiction of what space might resemble if compressed onto a single plane visible to the human eye. The artist masterfully grapples with profound philosophical questions: Where does everything begin? How was all creation brought forth? Kim Bong-tae draws his inspiration from the ancient wisdom embodied by Taiji and the Bagua, channeling these deep currents of Asian philosophy into a vibrant, abstract spectacle.

A Symphony in Blue and Color

The visual anchor of the piece is dominated by an expansive field of blue, a color that poetically symbolizes the infinite, empty expanse of the universe. Yet, this supposed void is anything but empty. Within this deep azure cradle, glimpses of every conceivable hue erupt, suggesting not just scattered colors, but the very breath of new life emerging from nothingness. At the heart of this cosmic swirl rests a luminous yellow center, acting as both an origin point and a beacon of potential energy. The composition is richly complex; smaller circles drift through the main structure, while distinct geometric forms—a sharp triangle in the upper left and a solid square toward the bottom right—anchor the eye within the swirling dynamism. This interplay between organic flow and rigid geometry speaks to the underlying order governing apparent chaos.

Symbolism of Origin and Harmony

The title itself, which translates roughly to "Without Origin," hints at the core tenet explored by Kim Bong-tae: that creation does not spring from a singular point or a linear sequence of events. Instead, it emerges from harmony—a state of perfect balance. The painting suggests that all things coexist in a perpetual, beautiful equilibrium. For the collector or admirer, this piece offers more than mere decoration; it serves as a profound meditation object, a visual reminder that beginnings are cyclical and inherently harmonious.

Technique and Emotional Resonance

Kim Bong-tae’s technique channels the spirit of Abstract Expressionism, evident in the bold application of color and the sense of energetic movement across the surface. While rooted in traditional Korean artistic foundations, his execution feels utterly modern and universal. The sheer scale of NONORIENTABLE 91 (180 x 180 cm) ensures that it commands a room, demanding attention while simultaneously inviting deep contemplation. To bring this piece into your space is to infuse it with intellectual depth and vibrant, boundless energy. It is an artwork that does not just hang on the wall; it breathes life into the very atmosphere of a room, making any interior feel connected to the grand, mysterious narrative of the cosmos.

Questions & Answers

What kind of colors does "NONORIENTABLE 91" use?

The colors of "NONORIENTABLE 91" form a dark palette. This classification describes the dominant color families.

What stage of Kim Bong-tae's development does "NONORIENTABLE 91" represent?

Within Kim Bong-tae's career, "NONORIENTABLE 91" falls in the Abstract Period. The phase helps compare it with the artist's other works.

What historical period is "NONORIENTABLE 91" by Kim Bong-tae from?

The historical period of "NONORIENTABLE 91" by Kim Bong-tae is Modern. This classification situates the work in art history.

Related Artworks

Yellow, Red, Blue — Wassily Wassilyevich Kandinsky, Abstract Expressionism
Wassily Wassilyevich Kandinsky Yellow, Red, Blue
Green Pink — Wendy Mcarthur
Wendy Mcarthur Green Pink
Yellow Lion, Blue Foxes, Blue Horse — Franz Marc, German Expressionism
Franz Marc Yellow Lion, Blue Foxes, Blue Horse
Stones Of Venice, Pomegranate — Joe Tilson
Joe Tilson Stones of Venice, Pomegranate
Critical State:spring — Dōmoto Hisao, Abstract Expressionism
Dōmoto Hisao Critical State:Spring
Yellow - Red - Blue — Wassily Wassilyevich Kandinsky, Abstract Expressionism
Wassily Wassilyevich Kandinsky Yellow - Red - Blue
Red Blue Yellow — Gerhard Richter, Abstract Expressionism
Gerhard Richter Red Blue Yellow
Composition With Red, Yellow And Blue 3 — Piet Mondrian, Neoplasticism
Piet Mondrian Composition with red, yellow and blue 3
Pop Stars — Philippa Naylor, Contemporary Art
Philippa Naylor Pop Stars
Three Blue And Three Red — František Kupka, Abstract Expressionism
František Kupka Three blue and three red

Artist Biography

Kim Bong-tae: A Pioneer of Korean Abstract Art

  • Born: Seoul, South Korea (1937)
  • Origin: ArtsDot
  • Current Status: Living

Early Life and Education

  • Kim Bong-tae's artistic journey began with his graduation from the Department of Painting at Seoul National University in 1961. This foundational education provided him with a strong base in traditional art techniques, which he would later transcend through his exploration of abstraction.
  • A pivotal moment arrived in 1963 when he exhibited at the Paris Biennale alongside prominent Korean artists like Park So-bo and Yoon Myeong-ro. This international exposure significantly shaped his artistic trajectory, introducing him to Western abstract expressionism.

Artistic Style and Influences

  • Abstract Expressionism: Kim Bong-tae's style is deeply rooted in the principles of Abstract Expressionism, characterized by bold brushstrokes and a vibrant use of color. His work reflects an engagement with the movement’s emphasis on spontaneous gesture and emotional intensity.
  • Korean Traditional Art: While influenced by Western art, Kim Bong-tae also draws inspiration from Korean traditional art forms. This is evident in his incorporation of natural materials and a focus on spontaneity, echoing elements found in traditional Korean painting and calligraphy.
  • Geometric Abstraction: Over time, Kim Bong-tae's work evolved to incorporate geometric abstraction, exploring the interplay of shapes, lines, and colors within structured compositions. This development demonstrates his ongoing experimentation with form and space.

Major Achievements and Recognition

  • Paris Biennale (1963): His participation in this prestigious international exhibition marked a significant early milestone, establishing him on the global art stage.
  • Exhibitions at National Museums: Kim Bong-tae's work has been featured in prominent exhibitions at institutions such as the Seoul Museum of Art and the National Museum of Contemporary Art in Korea, solidifying his place within Korean art history.
  • Awards and Citations: He received the Presidential Citation and the Grand Prize at the Seoul Art Festival, recognizing his significant contributions to the Korean art world.
  • ArtsDot Collection: His paintings are part of the collection at ArtsDot.com, an online platform dedicated to handmade oil painting reproductions and print on canvas, further expanding access to his work for art enthusiasts worldwide.

Legacy and Impact

  • Kim Bong-tae has played a crucial role in revitalizing and sustaining the abstract art movement within Korea. His dedication to exploring abstraction over several decades has inspired generations of Korean artists.
  • His ability to synthesize Western influences with elements of Korean artistic heritage has created a unique and recognizable style, contributing to the diversity and richness of contemporary Korean art.
  • Through his exhibitions, awards, and continued creative practice, Kim Bong-tae remains an influential figure in the Korean art scene, demonstrating the enduring power of abstract expressionism.
Kim Bong-tae

Kim Bong-tae

1937 - , South Korea

Quick Facts

  • Artistic Movement Or Style: Abstract art
  • Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist: ['Future generations of Korean artists']
  • Artists Who Influenced This Artist: ['Western Abstract Expressionism']
  • Date Of Birth: 1937
  • Full Name: Kim Bong-tae
  • Nationality: South Korean
  • Notable Artworks:
    • Shadow series
    • Nonorientable
    • Window
    • Dancing Box
    • Accumulation
  • Place Of Birth: Seoul, South Korea