Artist Maureen Gaffney-Wolfson, who has drawn great attention from the Korean American community for her artistic portrayal of Yu Gwan-sun, held a grand opening event for her independent gallery, beginning the exhibition of more than 100 works.
Yu Gwan-sun (1902-1920) was a Korean independence activist. As a student, she was a key figure in the 1919 March 1st Movement against Japanese colonial control. She was imprisoned and tortured for her acts and died in prison, becoming a symbol of Korea’s struggle for independence.
The ‘Maureen Gaffney Wolfson Art Gallery’ held its opening ceremony on the afternoons of December 2 and 3, respectively, showcasing a lifetime of work. Wolfson received a warm reception from local leaders, including the Korean American community.
“I’m happy to show you how I’ve grown as a girl and as a human being,” said Wolfson, whose artwork spans 50 years. “If there is any inspiration you receive from the paintings and other works, I would love to hear it and share it with all of you,” Wolfson said on December 2.
The gallery especially attracted attention by dedicating a corner to Yu Gwan-sun, displaying paintings of her along with messages wishing for Korean reunification and peace.
In his congratulatory remarks, Yoonho Nahm, CEO of the Korea Daily, said, “Yu Gwan-sun’s spirit transcends narrow nationalism. She was an advocate for peace and patriotism. This aspect of Yu is beautifully captured in Wolfson’s artwork. Through this compassionate portrayal, we can see Yu Gwan-sun’s unwavering commitment to peace, resonating across time, borders, and cultures. We are grateful to Wolfson for sharing the spirit of martyrdom through her wonderful works.”
“My mother was an artist, so I can relate to Wolfson’s experience, pain, and love,” said California’s 34th State Treasurer Fiona Ma, who visited to celebrate the opening of the gallery. “Her warmth and curiosity about the world as an artist is a blessing not only to the local people but also to the many generations that will see her work in the future.”
“I’m thrilled to see such a great gallery opening on the north side of the Valley to inspire more young people,” said Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo, who also attended. “I know the wonderful artwork will enrich our community.”
The two-day event in Calabasas attracted significant attention, with Mayor David J. Shapiro, Nick Montana, President of the Chatsworth Chamber of Commerce, and over 100 other esteemed guests in attendance. The gallery’s opening on December 2 and 3 was a vibrant celebration, drawing in more than 100 Korean Americans and community members. Among them was Korean American Seok-won Kim, who generously contributed a woodblock print to the gallery’s collection.
The gallery (19860 Plummer Street, Chatsworth, CA 91311) is open to the public by phone appointment at 800-588-8625.
BY BRIAN CHOI, JUNHAN PARK [ichoi@koreadaily.com]
