Installation view of
《The Weaponocene Epoch》 ©Seoul National University Museum of ArtThe Seoul National University Museum of Art is
hosting the special exhibition 《The Weaponocene Epoch》
until May 4, exploring the contemporary era through the lens of
"weapons."
This exhibition reflects on the present by
examining weapons that embody cutting-edge modern technology and highlights
around 130 works by domestic and international artists who explore the form and
purpose of weaponry.
Installation view of
《The Weaponocene Epoch》 ©Seoul National University Museum of ArtThe term ‘Weaponocene’ refers to the
far-reaching impact of military activities—such as weapons production,
technological development, the defense industry, and warfare—on the environment
and the future of humanity, alongside the complex military-industrial system
that surrounds them. While the Anthropocene addresses the geological effects of
human activity on the planet, and the Capitalocene critiques the expansion of
capitalism’s influence on society and nature, Weaponocene builds upon these
concepts to warn against the dangers of militarized civilization.
Installation view of
《The Weaponocene Epoch》 ©Seoul National University Museum of ArtThis exhibition emphasizes the "power
of art" as a force that challenges weapons, the foundation of power for
rulers and the strong. By presenting art as a "chosen incapacity" in
contrast to the power of weapons, the exhibition seeks to reflect on the
present era.
Participating Artists: Kang Yong Suk, Kang Hong-Goo, Kwon
Ki Dong, No Yanghoun , Regina José Galindo, Mimmo, Area Park, Bang Byungsang,
Bang Jeong A, Ahn Sungseok, Oh Jeisung, Lee Yong Baek, Zin Kijong, Choi Jea
Hun, Tuan Andrew Nguyen, Paul Shambroom, Ha Tae-Bum, Hur Boree
Ji Yeon Lee has been working as an editor for the media art and culture channel AliceOn since 2021 and worked as an exhibition coordinator at samuso (now Space for Contemporary Art) from 2021 to 2023.
