[비즈한국] The ‘2024 Busan International Art Fair (BIAF),’ an open art market where artists and consumers trade directly, held its opening ceremony at 5:00 PM on the 5th, signaling the start of the event. Now in its 23rd year, the Busan International Art Fair will run for a total of four days until the 8th at BEXCO Exhibition Center II in Busan.
The Busan International Art Fair has established itself as an Asian art festival that is not only a 100% artist-participatory fair but also a venue for artists, art enthusiasts, and the general public to enjoy together. This year, the host, K-ART International Exchange Association, plans to donate the event's proceeds to UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund) to create a festival that supports children around the world.
The slogan for the ‘2024 Busan International Art Fair’ is ‘Provocative Emotion, Cheeky Expression,’ and visitors can explore over 3,000 works presented by some 250 domestic and international artists all in one place.
This year’s side events include a talk show featuring two outstanding emerging artists from last year, titled ‘Provocative and Cheeky Chat,’ as well as docent tours providing commentary on the exhibited works. The ‘Special Exhibition of Indian Artists,’ curated by renowned Indian art historian Dr. Ashaf, showcases 50 works by 25 Indian artists. Additionally, the number of emerging artists has increased by 40% compared to last year, allowing visitors to see the diverse works of 50 new artists. Works by five past BIAF outstanding emerging artists are also available to view through individual booths.
The ‘BIAF Save Collection’ was also exhibited, featuring works by mid-career artists at discounted prices to make it easier for the public to collect art. Works by artists such as Lee Hee-don, Jeon Jun-yeop, and Jung Yeon-hee, who participated in the ‘Korea Art Support Project’ held annually by Bizhankook and Ilyo Shinmun to promote the development of Korean art, are also on display at this year’s fair.
This year, the fair drew attention by debuting a unique art fashion show that combines paintings with Hanbok for the first time in Korea. Just before the opening ceremony at 3:00 PM today, works by designer Lee Won-ho, which reinterpret traditional Joseon Dynasty costumes, were unveiled on the central stage of BEXCO Exhibition Center II. Citizen and senior models wearing the traditional attire presented 33 of the exhibited works, receiving a great response from the audience (Related article: [Photo] Art Fashion Show Held Prior to the Opening of the 2024 Busan International Art Fair).
The opening ceremony for the Busan International Art Fair took place at 5:00 PM. Heo Sook, Chairperson of the K-ART International Exchange Association, declared the opening, saying, “I hope the Busan International Art Fair will create a venue for broader communication and exchange through art.” Following this, Venerable Subul, Chairman of the Korea-India Buddhist Exchange Committee, delivered a congratulatory speech, stating, “I am grateful to the K-ART International Exchange Association for consistently continuing this event despite difficulties. Although it has already established itself as an international event, I hope it becomes even greater with each passing year.”
Amit Kumar, Ambassador of India to South Korea, shared his thoughts: “It is a great honor to be here with artists from all over the world, and I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to introduce Indian art to Korea. I wish for the success of the Busan International Art Fair and hope all visitors find joy, honor, and reflection.” Cho Mi-jin, Secretary General of the Korean Committee for UNICEF, also stated, “I have been to many art fairs, but I don’t think I’ve ever seen a venue where you can meet so many works by emerging artists. I am happy to feel the interest and support of so many people, and I hope you will join hands with UNICEF.”
This year, Hyundai Motor Company005380 and India’s TVS are participating as sponsors, raising expectations for a new chapter in cultural and artistic exchange between Korea and India. Exhibition hours are from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with last admission at 6:00 PM. However, on the final day, the 8th, admission ends at 4:00 PM. Admission is 15,000 KRW for general visitors and 10,000 KRW for students, with discounts available for groups of 20 or more. For more information on visiting the exhibition and other details, please check the Busan International Art Fair website (www.biaf.kr).