Perigee Gallery, located in Seocho-gu, Seoul, is hosting a solo exhibition, Twinkle, by photography artist Gwon Do-yeon until November 25.
Contrary to the nuances implied by the title, the exhibition features black-and-white photographs taken at night. The exhibition, Twinkle, refers to the moment when the camera flash reflects in the eyes of animals, causing them to sparkle. At the same time, it is a metaphor for the instantaneous recognition of objects far from our gaze. In other words, the artist, through photography, encourages the recognition of subjects that exist in reality but are often overlooked by our gaze.
To capture wildlife, Gwon followed the time between nightfall and dawn. Only artificial lights, such as camera flashes and streetlights, exist in the landscapes depicted in black and white. The photos captured by the artist portray various animals living in ecosystems altered by humans. Elkes, otters, raccoons, cats, rabbits, and more coexist around us, but encountering them on a night road can be surprising or bewildering. This reflects the unfamiliarity we have with life forms beyond pets.
Through this exhibition, artist Gwon Do-yeon addresses societal narratives such as ecological issues altered by humans, the diverse relationships between various life forms, and the urban environment and its resident animals. Using documentary-like photography, the artist aims to familiarize viewers with situations where they encounter animals around them and encourages a proper acknowledgment of such situations.