Three Veteran Writers from Sinan-gun Designated as 'Jeonnam Honorary Artists'

Korean Painting by Park Yong-gyu and Kim Eun-ok, Photo Wonsuchil

Three artists from Sinan-gun, Jeollanam-do, have been designated as '2024 Jeollanam-do Honorary Artists.'

According to the county on the 26th, the artists from Sinan-gun designated as Jeollanam-do Honorary Artists are Korean painting artists Park Yong-gyu (82) and Kim Eun-ok (68), and photographer Won Su-chil (72).

Jeollanam-do designates artists who enrich the community through culture and arts and enhance residents' pride as 'Honorary Artists.' The designation targets residents aged 50 or older with over 15 years of artistic activity in their field and who have lived in the province for more than 10 years.

(Photo from left) Korean painting artists Park Yong-gyu and Kim Eun-ok, and photographer Won Su-chil were designated as honorary artists of Jeollanam-do. Provided by Sinan-gun

In 2024, eight people, including three veteran artists from Sinan-gun, were designated as Jeollanam-do Honorary Artists. Those designated receive a certificate, an honorary plaque, invitations to cultural and artistic events, and other honors.

Veteran artist Park Yong-gyu from Sinan-gun, known as a master of Korean painting, has served as an inaugural artist at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and as a judge for the Korea Art Exhibition. His works can be viewed at the permanent exhibition hall of the Evening Glow Art Museum within the 1004 Islands Bonsai Garden.

Artist Kim Eun-ok, also known as Chohyeon, organized the Sinan Art Association and Sinan Federation of Artistic and Cultural Organizations, leading the revitalization of culture and arts in Sinan-gun. She has been at the forefront of enhancing the rights and improving the system for female artists in Jeollanam-do and actively participates in solo and group exhibitions.

Photographer Won Su-chil has won awards in various photography competitions within the province and has been recognized for his contributions to nurturing young talents and promoting photographic culture in the local community based on his outstanding skills. He is especially known as a leading authority in the country and currently serves as the chief curator of the 1004 Museum Park.

County Governor Park Woo-ryang said, “I am pleased that capable veteran local artists have been designated as Jeollanam-do Honorary Artists,” adding, “We will expand opportunities for both veteran and young artists in the region to help Sinan become an art island.”