“The only way to deal with an unfree world is to become so absolutely free that your very existence is an act of rebellion.” ~ Albert Camus

Our time in Korea has been a series in life lessons.  As an American, I have taken so many things for granted and not truly appreciated the luxury that being an American affords me.  But this post isn't about me, or even the Oliver family...  it's about Song Byeok. 

A cover of the Stars and Stripes caught my attention last week.  On it was what I thought to be a political cartoon of Kim Jong-Il, but only his face was on the body of Marilyn Monroe.  Funny right?  Later on, I sat down with the paper and learned that it was a painting by a North Korean defector.  This really caught my attention, as I have yet to see anything so bold or creative.

Song Byeok grew up in North Korea. But he was also employed by the Central Party...  as an artist.  His job was to paint the propaganda posters.  Unfortunately, he spent some time in a work camp after he was caught trying to cross into China to bring food back for his family.  But this was the turning point where the artist found his muse.  He defected to the South and pursued his passion for painting.  The former propaganda painter has transformed into a satirical critic of North Korea and Kim Jong-Il

Researching some more, and using Google Translate a LOT, I found that he was holding an exhibition of his artwork at a small gallery in Insa-dong.  On Saturday, Ronnie, our friend Mike, and the girls humored my curiosity and love of art for an hour so I could see the exhibit. His main theme is freedom and the longing for freedom.  Here are a few pictures I took while there. 

On the left, Kim Jong-Monroe.  In an interview, the artist said the reason he chose Marilyn's famous pose was that it reminded him of how hard Kim Jong-Il tries to keep the curtains down on Korea. 

On the right, a mural of the letters he exchanged with his sister after his defection.  There are butterflies trapped in the mural. 

Mostly I looked and took it all in. Looking back, I really wish I had a Korean-speaking friend with me, as Song Byeok was there at the gallery.  We exchanged a quick smile and small bow, but that was all.  I wish I could have told him what a wonderful artist he is, how I appreciate the struggle he captured in each work, and more importantly, how much I admire him for having the audacity to do something as amazing as this.  Because he is truly free.