A Visit to Ami Art Museum: A Unique Cultural Space in Chungnam
I recently visited the Ami Art Museum in Dangjin, Chungnam, which has been transformed from a closed elementary school into an artistic space, reflecting my interest in urban regeneration projects.
The name 'Ami' comes from the nearby Ami Mountain, which is named for its ridge resembling a woman's eyebrow. Additionally, 'Ami' means 'friend' in French, symbolizing the museum's aim to be a close and friendly place.
The entrance fee is 7,000 won for adults and 5,000 won for students aged 24 months to high school, as well as for seniors (70 years and older), people with disabilities, soldiers, and veterans.
This private art museum, cultivated by artist Park Gi-ho and installation artist Koo Hyeon-sook, houses over 700 works, including paintings and installations. Opened in 2011, it features five exhibition halls, a traditional Korean house exhibition space, an outdoor exhibition area, and an event venue.
I was drawn to the robotic artworks installed under the old tree at the entrance, which created a sensuous atmosphere.
The abandoned school building, now covered in ivy, has been transformed into a fantastic art exhibition space. Surrounding the exhibition area are numerous flowers, allowing visitors to enjoy a leisurely stroll and a healing experience.
Ami Art Museum, with its harmonious blend of nature and art, can be considered a work of art itself. It has gained a reputation as a great spot for photography, attracting many visitors.
I first explored the exhibition halls, which preserve the old school's appearance, as if time had stopped. Upon entering, a pink-painted branch hanging from the ceiling immediately catches the eye, adorned with pink feathers resembling leaves.
This artwork, titled 'My Garden... Everyone's Garden,' extends through the right corridor.
The theme of the exhibition in halls 1-3 is 'From Home Space to Life.' The organizers state, "Show us your home, and we will tell you who you are. A home reflects one's soul and reveals personal tastes and values. This exhibition aims to explore the multifaceted meanings of home through the artist's perspective and encourage deep reflection on our life paths and future living."
Vines climbing up the white-painted interior walls create a unique harmony, guiding visitors through the space. The natural light streaming in through the windows, combined with the various artworks displayed, fosters a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere.
In the fourth exhibition hall, visitors can enjoy the installation works by director Park Gi-ho while taking photos.
The Maison de Ami, an educational program space, offers an experience program for creating a personal home filled with dreams and memories.
The traditional Korean house exhibition hall features installation works, and outdoor installations around the museum provide opportunities to appreciate art while healing.
There is also a bamboo path, where the sound of bamboo leaves adds to the pleasant walking experience.
After a leisurely walk along the trails, I found the museum café 'Giverny,' a cozy space to relax while enjoying charming decorations.
The former school playground has been transformed into a spacious grassy plaza for various events.
Ami Art Museum has been recognized as a 'must-visit healing museum.' With its distinct charm, it attracts around 160,000 visitors annually, emerging as a popular tourist destination.
I highly recommend visiting the 'Instagrammable' Ami Art Museum, reborn from a closed school into a cultural space.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/sinmunman/224293105372
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