South Korean artist sings for life in paintings

Two of professor Kim Byung-jong's paintings featuring red flowers are displayed at Today Art Museum. [Photo/Ecns]

(ECNS) -- The opening of a solo exhibition themed "Song of Life" was hosted at Beijing's Today Art Museum on Saturday afternoon.

The show, running from February 1 to March 9, displays the work of South Korean artist Kim Byung-jong, art professor at Seoul National University (SNU). His paintings mainly feature red flowers, white cranes, and deer in praise of longevity of life.

The artist achieved certain fame in China when his works were sent to Xi Jinping as a gift during the Chinese President's visit to SNU last July.

Red flowers form a major part of the exhibition. Kim explained that red symbolizes both passion and vitality. Though simple, these flowers directly convey the beauty and inclusiveness of life, he added.

Gao Peng, Today Art Museum director, said Kim's work "promotes an oriental aesthetic that includes calm, grace, and fascination without consideration for preposterous colors and lines."

The exhibition signifies the close tie between China and South Korea, Gao added.