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Inspired by the African Ubuntu philosophy, the title I Am Because We Are encapsulates the principles of interconnectedness, community, and harmony. This ancient wisdom resonates with contemporary global issues such as environmental crises, AI advancements, resurgent nationalism, and new geopolitical tensions centered on global supply chains. The exhibition underscores the importance of solidarity and collective intelligence in navigating these rapid transformations. It offers a critical perspective to understand and respond to these challenges, emphasizing the fundamental power of art to foster empathy and shape an inclusive, sustainable, and harmonious future.

As we stand on the cusp of unprecedented global transformation, I Am Because We Are addresses the essential wisdom needed to rekindle humanity's universal empathy across time and space. This exhibition envisions a future where divides are bridged through understanding and solidarity, and reimagines the potential of an interconnected world with a shared vision for a harmonious future.

Dialogue: I Am Because We Are is held at Hwigyeomjae, a traditional hanok in Seoul. Characterized by its open structure and harmony with nature, the hanok aligns with the exhibition’s exploration of relationships between past and present, East and West, technology and humanity, and the individual and community. Seven Korean contemporary artists present works incorporating digital sculpture, AI-based creations, and media art, offering diverse visual interpretations that engage with the unique spatial characteristics of Hwigyeomjae.

Jaeho Shim, a curator of Hzone, guiding visitors through the exhibition.

Hyangro Yoon, Tagging—H.

Jeisung Oh, INDEX#3_Cabinet of Curiosity.

Gyomyung Shin, Lee Il-O (b.2021).

Seulki Ki, primal selfie series.

Seok Hyun Han, FRESH Plant.

Byungho Lee, Eccentric Abattis.

Ram Han, Pie Dough Unborn.

Dialogue: I Am Because We Are hosted an exhibition tour program featuring international speakers, facilitating discussions with key figures from the global art scene. Additionally, in collaboration with Frieze Seoul and KIAF Seoul, the exhibition organized the Samcheong Night party, providing a networking space for curators, gallerists, artists, and collectors from both Korea and abroad.

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Host

Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism

Organizer

Korea Arts Management Service

Artistic Director

Daehyung Lee(Director of Hzone)

Curator

Jaeho Shim(Curator of Hzone)

Judy Hyunjung Lee(Curator of Hzone)

Coordinator

Geunbae Yang(Assistant Curator of Hzone)

Hyeonjung Lee(Assistant Curator of Hzone)

Artist Interview

Jerome Neutres, Kay Watson, Nadine Isabelle Henrich, Noam Segal, Vennes Cheng, Virginia Moon, Yasmine Ostendorf

Artist

Seulki Ki, Ram Han, Gyomyung Shin, Jeisung Oh, Hyangro Yoon, ByungHo Lee, Seok Hyun Han