Page 27 - BSAM 2015 Q3

Jack: Stone aficionados among us are quick to use the word Traditional when describing their points of view regarding the practice of collecting and exhibiting stones. It is today’s practice that is tomorrow’s tradi- tion, which means to me, that the method of practice is in a constant state of flux or change. Whether the preceding statement is true or false, what is your per- spective regarding the conventional/traditional prac- tice of the art in Korea?
Eden: The ancient Kwaesuk influence, Mi Fu’s four preferred traits, and even the Confucian admiration of pure hardness of material in combination with sub- dued color (i.e., specific form not withstanding) still live on in Korean stone collecting. These are our tradi- tions. But Japanese Suiseki style has flourished since World War II and is today an equal influence.
Jack: With regard to the purists among us, the tradi- tions have not changed in either Japan or Korea but the methods of practice of the art certainly have, es- pecially in the West, which, undoubtedly, will shape tomorrows traditions. The result of the propensity to change the practice offers an opportunity for experi- mentation using the material available to collectors. As has been pointed out earlier in this dialog it is well for us to remember that it is art we are discussing and art and its interpretation are seldom predictable. What do you consider to be the most defining aesthetic (ar- tistic/visual) characteristic that separates Suseok from the other notable methods of general practice?
Chung: It’s like traditional Korean soup—not too fussy! Humble. Hearty. A mix of flavors and textures. A fragrance. Its warmth invites you in. One sip, deep and satisfying. Pure experience carries you away.
EPILOGUE
There is little doubt that each exhibition of viewing stones, whether they are Gongshi, Suseok or Suiseki, presents an opportunity for a great learning experi- ence for both visitors and for all those who take the time to exhibit stones in shows and participate in the ensuing dialog.
To me there is no greater fun than scanning the desert floor, frolicking at the edge of the surf on a beach, or wading in a cool stream in search of that masterpiece stone which is most difficult to find and even more difficult to define and may not even exist except in the imagination of the collector. It has been said that a spare time enthusiast can scarcely expect to find one. Even if you are providential enough to possess one, it often appears to be deficient for a complete expression of your artistic discernment of what it should be and so the search continues on and on. Therefore too many never seems to be enough.
Chung’s presentation at the symposium in Pennsyl- vania was a masterwork of decorum, scholarship, and distinction. She was a tribute to herself, to the whole of the Korean community, and to all of us who practice the art and are fortunate enough to call her friend.
During every show it is a common sight to see groups of stone enthusiasts discussing the relative merits of a single stone. The ideas and thoughts of these groups of admirers is the impetus for further discussion at meetings and roundtable debates of their respective membership. This particular show was not an excep- tion to that philosophical belief. It was a great show and we hope that it will be but one of many yet to come. Congratulations again to the leadership of the Korean American Soosuk Club for staging a fine show and many thanks to the LA Arboretum for making a wonderful space available for this very worthy exhibit. Well done!
Top left and right; Sam Suk Memorial. Sam was the founding member of the SOOSUK club. He was always happy and made everyone who knew him feel good as well.
His passion for stones was exceeded only by his good nature and love for the art. Surely his spirit will live on in his stones. Especially within the imagination of viewers of his ‘Spirit Dancer’ stone. We all look forward to seeing his stones again and again as reminders of his life experience.
Bottom; A viewing stone dis- played with a poem, In Praise of Kwaesuk, by Syngman Rhee, First President of the Republic of South Korea, 1954-1957.
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