Jo Gyuhun

Jo Gyuhun (South Korean, b. 1982) is a contemporary artist renowned for his evocative paintings featuring children covering their faces, a motif inspired by a poignant film scene that left a lasting impression on him. His work has been showcased at prestigious Korean art fairs such as the Busan International Art Fair and Seoul Art Show, as well as international galleries worldwide. Gyuhun's signature series, "Children Hiding Their Faces," invites viewers to imagine the emotions and stories behind the concealed expressions, encouraging a personal connection to the artwork. This thematic focus reflects his own introspective childhood experiences and fascination with Japanese manga and animation.

"When I look at the children in the works, my childhood naturally comes to mind.”

Jo Gyuhun was born in Incheon, Korea, in 1982 and graduated from Hanseo University, majoring in animation. Jo is based in Incheon and his works have been showcased at prestigious Korean art fairs such as the Busan International Art Fair and Seoul Art Show. He began to paint these “Children Hiding Their Faces” as he was inspired by a significant scene of a film that he has fortuitously come across, in which a girl in a white shirt is crying with her hands covering her face. This scene left a strong impression on him and later encouraged him to paint with children as his subject.

As he explained his concept, he mentions that he can feel these different feelings and expressions of children hidden behind their hands, and he also hopes the audiences can enjoy the moment when they are imagining the facial expressions behind these hands.

Works

Exhibitions

Booth AM219

Art Miami 2023: Booth AM219

6 - 10 December 2023

Maddox returns to Art Miami for its fifth year, presenting a bold showcase of contemporary talent. Featuring a dynamic roster of artists, the booth highlights the gallery’s signature curation of cutting-edge and collectible works. On view from 6th to 10th December 2023 at Booth AM219, Art Miami.

Maddox Street

KAWAII

14 October - 27 November 2022

Maddox Gallery presents Kawaii, a group exhibition celebrating playful and whimsical art. Featuring works by artists like Javier Calleja, Cheng Zhe, Jo Gyuhun, and STIK, the show explores the joyful, emotive aspects of Japanese-inspired aesthetics. On view from 14th October to 27th November 2022 at Maddox Street, London.