Mane (b. 1978) is a South Korean artist who creates works that intertwines the vivid imagery of his youth with a poetic exploration of memory. His art is deeply rooted in the colorful, exuberant pop culture of the 1980s and 1990s, a time when bold hues and striking designs reigned. Reflecting on his past, Mane explains, "I explore the fleeting nature of memory, drawing heavily on the nostalgia of my childhood." This sentiment is at the core of his creative expression, where each piece serves as a window into a world that merges recollection with fantasy.
His pieces are not just about reimagining the past; they are designed to be personal journeys. By transforming everyday memories into surreal landscapes, he invites viewers to reconnect with the innocence and wonder of their formative years. Central to his narrative is Mariffe, a recurring character who embodies the spirit of curiosity and adventure. Mariffe acts as both a muse and a storyteller, guiding the audience through a visual narrative that blurs the boundaries between memory and reality.
In combining the playful essence of Pop Art with profound introspection, Mane crafts works that resonate on multiple levels. The simplicity of his visual language belies a deep narrative complexity, offering space for viewers to experience a multitude of emotions and personal reflections. His art ultimately becomes a celebration of the ephemeral beauty of memory, a reminder that even in the fleeting nature of life, there lies an enduring charm and a bridge back to our most cherished moments.
SELECTED EXHIBITIONS
2024 ‒ Solo Exhibition "Neverland Syndrome", Gallery THEO, Seoul, South Korea
2024 ‒ Group Exhibition. Art Taipei, Gallery THEO, Taipei, Taiwan
2024 ‒ Group Exhibition. Art Jakarta, Gallery THEO, Jakarta, Indonesia
2024 ‒ Group Exhibition. Art Busan, Gallery THEO, Busan, South Korea
2023 ‒ Group Exhibition. Art Jakarta, Gallery THEO, Jakarta, Indonesia
2023 ‒ Group Exhibition. Art Taipei, Gallery THEO, Taipei, Taiwan
2023 ‒ Group Exhibition. Urban Break, Open call artist, Seoul, South Korea
2023 ‒ Group Exhibition. Art Busan, Gallery Afternoon, Busan, South Korea
ART FAIR
2025 - Art OnO 2025, VILLAZAN
2024 ‒ Art Taipei, Gallery THEO, Taipei, Taiwan
2024 ‒ Art Jakarta, Gallery THEO, Jakarta, Indonesia
2024 ‒ Art Busan, Gallery THEO, Busan, South Korea
2023 ‒ Art Jakarta, Gallery THEO, Jakarta, Indonesia
2023 ‒ Art Taipei, Gallery THEO, Taipei, Taiwan
2023 ‒ Urban Break, Open call artist, Seoul, South Korea
2023 ‒ Art Busan, Gallery Afternoon, Busan, South Korea