김환기 현대문인화의 소박미 고찰 = A Study on Austere Beauty in Contemporary Korean Literati Painting of Kim Whanki

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

This thesis is a study of the aesthetic consciousness of Koreans, particularly on the ‘austerity’ or ‘simplicity’ shown in contemporary Korean literati painting. This theme may seem at odds with this era of materialism. However, we are now in an acute crisis to the extent that we have to reflect on our civilization. We have to change our elemental attitude towards nature to overcome this crisis mankind faces today. This is the reason why ‘austerity’ as part of our aesthetics is urgently required, and this study aims to fulfill that purpose.
The more common synonym of ‘austere’ used in everyday life is ‘frugal’ i.e., trying not to be extravagant or excessive with spending and possessions. Aesthetically, however, its meaning includes thoughts on nature that are much more profound than this. If we can properly understand and practice this sense of the word, we will find out what our decisive mistakes have been and figure out how to supplement and overcome them.
This study examines Korea’s ‘austere beauty’ and outlines the simple and austere beauty shown in contemporary Korean literati painting. Literati painting captures the essence of nature through the flow of instantaneous energy that interacts with nature, emptying the artist's mind. The works of Kim Whanki analyzed to showcase how this tradition was inherited in contemporary Korean literati painting. Through this analysis, we confirm that the unique austere and simple beauty of Korea can have a competitive edge in contemporary art.