Gunsan is a city that had an important role in the Japanese colonial era. Due to that, it is no surprise that you can find many places where you can learn about the past. For example, galleries. They are a great way to learn about history, for sure. With this in mind, we will introduce you to 3 art galleries you should visit in Gunsan.
In fact, it is a good idea to go to each one of these galleries in Gunsan. As you can see through art, how things were back then, and how they have changed.
Although some of these are temporary, you can still read about the cityโs history. There are different expositions throughout the year. But the zone that never changes, is the one that teaches about the past. Now, get your luggage ready!
Getting to Know Gunsan Through Art
You can learn about the past of this city in all of these places. But, what makes it even better, is that you can also get to know local artists and their work. Gunsan is a city that looks for growth by helping its own citizens. It does so in a way that without erasing the past, instead keeping alive the nostalgic memory of the city in a recreational way.
With this in mind, these galleries feel even more important. You can see how Gunsan has come far as a city. In other words, you can just look back to the past and realize how things have changed in the present.
Now, let us introduce you to these 3 art galleries you should visit in Gunsan.
Jangmi Gallery
Origin
This place was one of the buildings that were used as a recreation facility after Koreaโs liberation from Japan in 1945. And now, follows the same path. It is now operating as an art gallery, where local artists can showcase their works.
Originally, soap operas were held here. But now, it is a space where artists can express their feelings, and visitors can understand them.
Tribute to Han Ban-young
A highlight of this place is that they do a tribute to Ha Ban-young. He is an artist who donated more than 100 works to Gunsan. Showing his great love for his hometown.
He is a person who endured the harsh life during the late Japanese colonial period by painting. And then, he used those works to make donations to those who were in need. For example, to the elderly living alone.
Activities for everyone
What I like the most about this place, is that they let you participate in various activities, such as handkerchief making, pouches making, etc. Even if you are a foreigner, they give you this chance to experience Korean culture firsthand.
If you would like to learn more, you can do so by Clicking Here.
Yegip Art Museum
History
Originally, this building was a Nonghyup branch ใ ก a bank built in 1974 ใ ก, which had four rice warehouses at the back. But in 2014, this place was reborn as an art and cultural space under the name of โThe Palma Art Spaceโ. Then, two galleries, a cafe, and a theater were opened with the thought of creating a space where the past and present coexist.
Plus it is located in front of the two historic railroad tracks of Gunsan, showing you the traces of the past.
Art exhibitions
The gallery area is divided into three sections. Here, you can freely visit to enjoy the art pieces.
Needless to say, this is another place where local artists can showcase their works. And I have heard, that the gallery is the one who sponsors the exhibition. So the artist does not have to get money out of pocket.
In fact, that is what makes this place worth the visit. Since it is free, plus the artist did not have to spend millions to be seen you can see local artists based on their quality, not their funds.
My favorite gallery is for sure the one that is located in the warehouse. The dark loft design, makes the artwork pop out.
Since art does not only refer to painting, you can also get to see some sculptures. Depending on the exhibition that is shown at the moment.
In case you want to know more about this place, you might want to read this article.
If you want to read more about the art museum, Click Here.
Modern Art Museum
Origin
In the Japanese colonial period, this place used to be the Gunsan branch of the Japanese 18th bank, which was constructed in 1911. And its capital, helped the Japanese become wealthy. Through the bank, they produced rice and sold it to Japan.
Now it is a place that shows the victory of Korea. It has become an art gallery that even has a tribute to an important figure โ Ahn Jung-geun (์์ค๊ทผ). He was the person who killed the man that led the invasion of Korea.
A bit of history
As we mentioned before, there is an area that is dedicated to Ahn Jung-geun (์์ค๊ทผ). He killed Hirobumi Ito (์ดํ ํ๋ก๋ถ๋ฏธ), the man that led the invasion of Korea. To this day, the location of his remains are unknown.
Japan did not leave a record of where he was buried. They were concerned that his grave would become a sacred place for the anti-Japanese movement.
Temporary art exhibitions
Just like the galleries we have talked about before, in this place artists have the chance to show their work to the public. And get some exposure.
At the time I went, they had an exposition about the late sculptor Park Jong-dae (๋ฐ์ข ๋). He donated 109 works to Gunsan city in 2014. However, only 24 stone and bronze art pieces were at the exhibition.
If you want to know more in-depth about this place, we have the following article for you.
To learn more about the art museum, Click Here.
Conclusion
If you are an art lover, you should visit these 3 art galleries in Gunsan. They are not only a place with great art pieces, but you can also learn about the past.
If you have already gone, what are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments!
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