Jean-Michel Othoniel “My Way” at PLATEAU

PLATEAU, one of Samsung’s Museums of Art, is situated in the heart of Seoul. It was known as Rodin Gallery, but few months ago reopened under the new name. These days it exposes two Rodin’s masterpieces (“The Gates of Hell” and “The Burghers of Calais”) permanently and has various contemporary art exhibitions too.

Now it’s holding an exhibit of Jean-Michel Othoniel, one of the leading French artists, who researches theme of psychological trauma and sexuality. He’s working in the context of body discourse but in a more private way, based on his personal experience. The exposition includes photography, mixed-media objects and recent beautiful glass constructions in diverse forms of necklaces or plants. Some works refers French psychoanalyst Lacan.

I especially like the work called “The Wishing Wall”. This is a huge wall covered in phosphorus, and visitors are supposed to strike the matches and make a wish. The artist draws our attention that the result of this action is a small scar on the wall’s surface. Therefore, wishes leave scars. As for me, this is a beautiful idea.

Directions: City Hall st., line 1 and 2, exit 8. Walk straight 3 min.

Admission fee: 5,000 won

Thru November, 27