Frieze New York 2025, scheduled from May 7–11, 2025, at The Shed, is set to highlight the “joy of fiber” and explore the nuanced boundary between craft and concept. The fair will feature contemporary Korean fiber artists, emphasizing the intricate process, expressive gesture, and the adaptability of tradition within their work. A notable collaboration involves the luxury skincare brand THE WHOO, partnering with women artists Ok Kim, Subin Seol, and Jian Yoo. These artists will debut intricate caskets that extend their “Beyond the Ocean” series, effectively reinventing traditional Korean artisanship for a contemporary audience. The explicit mention of “the joy of fiber” and the “porous boundary between craft and concept” at a major contemporary art fair like Frieze New York signifies a deliberate effort to integrate and elevate traditional handicrafts, particularly fiber art, into the mainstream fine art discourse. The collaboration with a luxury brand further validates the commercial and artistic value of these crafts. This trend suggests a broader re-evaluation of what constitutes “fine art,” blurring the lines between traditional craft and contemporary artistic expression. This opens new markets and critical recognition for artisans, moving their work beyond mere utility into the realm of high art and collectible pieces.
Source Link: https://tinakimgallery.com/news/487-frieze-new-york-2025-opening-night-delivers-maximalism-artefuse/, https://www.frieze.com/article/three-women-artists-reinvent-traditional-korean-artisanship-the-whoo-frieze-new-york-2025
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