Charlie Hahn

Charlie Hahn, _Box 03_, 2024, Digital Photograph, 40x60cm

2GIL29 GALLERY is honored to present the solo exhibition of renowned media artist Charlie Hahn (b. 1973), titled “As If You Know Everything,” from July 17 to July 31, 2024. Hahn, whose pioneering work in video and photography has earned international acclaim, delves deep into the interplay of identity and culture through the lens of time. His art navigates the fluid boundaries of identity transformation, conflict and consensus, synthesis, and paradox, drawing from a rich tapestry of psychological and sociological thought. “As If You Know Everything” critiques the pervasive tendency of media to project an omniscient understanding of reality while often disseminating fragmented and distorted narratives. Hahn’s oeuvre interrogates this phenomenon from multiple perspectives, revealing the nuanced human psyche that these media contexts engender. Despite their divergent aesthetics, the works on display are united by their shared exploration of process, trace, and thought flow, encapsulating myriad untold stories, regrets, and unspoken words. Hahn’s goal is to faithfully translate these ephemeral elements into tangible forms and images.

Charlie Hahn (b. 1973) is a media artist specializing in photography and time-based media. As a 1.5 generation Korean-American artist, Hahn explores issues of identity and culture through the lenses of opposition, consensus, synthesis, paradox, and change. His work intricately addresses the complexities and multifaceted nature of identity, drawing on diverse academic concepts from philosophy, psychology, and sociology. Hahn’s artworks have been exhibited and screened extensively across the United States and around the world. He holds a BFA and MA from the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) and an MFA from Towson University. Since 2015, he has been a professor at the College of Fine Arts at Keimyung University, dedicated to nurturing the next generation of artists.

Charlie Hahn, Thanks, 2024, Digital Photograph, 50x50cm

Hahn’s artistic journey is deeply rooted in exploring the intricate nature of identity and the multifaceted interactions within cultural contexts. His work emphasizes the dynamic and evolving nature of identity, shaped by external environments, personal experiences, and social interactions. Through his art, Hahn challenges audiences to question stereotypes about identity and culture, encouraging them to reflect on their own identities.

Hahn’s photographic works capture the subtle nuances of human experience, creating visually stunning and thought-provoking images through masterful use of light and composition. His time-based media works, including video installations and digital art, delve deeper into themes of transformation and paradox, fostering a dialogue between past and present, the known and the unknown. Recognized as a significant voice in contemporary Korean art, Hahn extends his influence beyond his artwork, actively engaging in curatorial projects and collaborative initiatives to promote cultural diversity and artistic expression. At Keimyung University in Daegu, he emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, creativity, and interdisciplinary approaches to art-making, dedicating himself to training the next generation of artists. Hahn encourages his students to explore their own identities and cultural backgrounds, using art as a medium for personal and communal growth.

Charlie Hahn, Untitled Bonsai 01, 2024, Charcoal on paper, 38x56cm

Visitors are invited to engage with the unseen narratives interwoven between the visual works and their personal experiences. We all have moments when we yearn to communicate without words, or choose silence out of fear of misunderstanding or the arrogance of appearing omniscient. Through his evocative and intimate creations, Hahn encourages viewers to reflect on their own stories and experiences, filling the gaps left by the images with personal meaning.

Hahn’s investigation into the fragmented and distorted realities perpetuated by media captures the intricate relationship between representation and truth. His work challenges viewers to scrutinize the authenticity of the narratives they consume, seeking to disrupt dominant discourses and reveal the underlying uncertainties. This exhibition offers a profound exploration of the contemporary human condition, guided by Hahn’s insightful perspectives and innovative techniques.

2GIL29 GALLERY invites art enthusiasts and the broader community to immerse themselves in Charlie Hahn’s thought-provoking exhibition. Experience a compelling journey through the complex layers of modern existence, where each piece invites introspection and dialogue. Join us for an unforgettable encounter with the multifaceted realms of identity and culture as seen through the discerning eye of Charlie Hahn.

2GIL29GALLERY
2GIL29 Bldg. 35, Gangnam-daero 158-gil, Gangnam-Gu, Seoul 06034 Korea
+82 2 6203 2015

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