맛:[MA:T] As It Is

New York, NY– Korean Cultural Center New York, a branch of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) of the Republic of Korea, is proud to announce the 맛:[MA:T] As It Is exhibition for the  Fall 2016 season. The show will be on view from September 15th to October 27th, 2016.

This fall’s exhibition 맛:[MA:T] As It Is, explores the unique elements of Korean cuisine and the role that taste plays in defining Korean food culture and a society’s lifestyles. While it is nearly impossible to capture all the intricacies of a culture’s sense of “taste,” this exhibition breaks down food culture into four major categories– rice, alcohol, kimchi, and delivery–that deliver palatable, comprehensive definitions of Korean taste to the audience.

맛:[MA:T] As It Is is unlike previous exhibitions. Whereas past shows have introduced Korean culture through refined and polished displays, the MA:T exhibition showcases common objects that are typically considered unsophisticated or not “unique” by Koreans. This non-traditional approach offers a more authentic, objective perspective of a culture that has so often exhibited itself in a very deliberate light.

The items on display feature a diverse range of materials and artists. From traditional kitchen tools and simple eating implements to hyperrealistic oil paintings of popular dishes and other various, food-inspired mixed media installations, this exhibition provides viewers the chance to understand Korean food culture in an interactive setting.

맛:[MA:T] As It Is exhibits pieces of aesthetic merit, but it also offers an incredibly informative overview of Korean food culture that educates audiences in an accessible way. The histories of rice, kimchi, and soju are explained alongside descriptions of Korea’s political and geographical history. The evolution of different Korean food traditions is made clear as the objects tell stories from ancient times to modern-day life. In its entirety, 맛:[MA:T] As It Is is a unique, dynamic exhibition that offers audiences from all backgrounds a glimpse into the distinct tastes of Korea and its food culture.

Further detailed information and materials on the exhibition can be found and downloaded from our website at www.koreanculture.org

OPENING RECEPTION (PUBLIC EVENT) SEPTEMBER 15, 2016. 6:00-8:00PM

KIMCHI-MAKING WORKSHOP WITH KOREAN CULINARY MASTERS OCTOBER, 2016. (TBA)

An exclusive kimchi-making workshop with renowned a “Korean Culinary Master” specially invited from Korea. Classes will provide an in-depth look at the history and cooking process of kimchi.