BK Ku, originally from Korea and now calling the Blue Mountains home, brings a unique perspective through his use of Hanji, a traditional Korean paper made from mulberry bark. His layered, textural works add a delicate yet powerful presence to the exhibition.
We spoke to him about the inspiration behind his work.
It is so wonderful to welcome you to Manyung Gallery! Congratulations on your upcoming exhibition. Can you share with us who or what are the biggest inspirations for your work?
Living in the Blue Mountains, I am deeply inspired by the region’s many faces—its rugged landscapes, shifting light, and serene natural beauty. Drawing from my emotions and memories, I use my imagination to translate these elements into abstract, modern expressions on canvas. My work incorporates traditional Korean Hanji paper, a material that embodies both strength and delicacy. Hanji’s organic fibers allow me to explore texture, layering, and translucency, mirroring the ever-changing light and atmosphere of my surroundings. Through layering, sculpting, and handcrafting, I create artworks that bridge my Korean heritage with my Australian home.I am grateful to Manyung Gallery for supporting my artistic journey and providing a space to share my vision. My work serves as a dialogue between tradition and environment, capturing the essence of memory, place, and the beauty of natural transformation.
Is there a particular piece from the exhibition that stands out for you? (Maybe one you are most fond of, or a piece that challenged you more than others?)
Every piece of my artwork has my full love, but creating this large piece “Hugging the Moon “ was the most challenging. It was my first time using Korean ink in a hand-painted style with big brush strokes, different from my usual approach. Inspired by the Blue Mountains misty evening and crafted on Hanji paper, this work reflects my connection to nature and heritage. The process was both exciting and challenging and pushing my artistic boundaries. I think that’s why “Hugging the moon” has a touch of extra charm and love. Not to mention my petite pieces are always so cute to look at!
What do you hope people will feel when viewing your work from this exhibition?
I like my audience to feel relaxed and calm, taking them to imaginary, dreamy places and connecting with nature when they look at my work. You’ll see a lot of white space in each piece—We call it “the beauty of the void.” This represents peace and breathing in traditional Korean art. It’s how I feel when I look at each piece, and I want people to feel the same.
We’d love to learn more about your creative process. Can you tell us more about your process of using Hanji paper? Have you always created works in this way?
I studied fine art and design at university in Korea, majoring in drawing and watercolours. When I moved to Australia, I started painting with watercolours, focusing on florals and still life, and I have always been drawn to the unique and versatile qualities of Hanji paper. I wanted to use this material to create a watercolor-like effect with light and shade, I discovered my own way of working with it and it’s been over 12 years since I started using this Hanji. Every piece of Hanji paper I use is imported from South Korea, and I am absolutely obsessed with its beauty.
My process begins with making my own flour starch, which I use as an adhesive and an extra protective layer for the Hanji paper. I work layer by layer, starting with light colors and gradually building up to darker shades. Before I begin, I picture the color scheme in my head, envisioning how the composition will take shape. I then rip Hanji paper into unique, organic shapes and carefully apply them to the canvas, forming structured shapes that evolve into landscapes. Each torn edge and delicate layer adds depth and texture, creating a sense of natural movement. Once it dries—which takes quite a long time—I bring the scene to life by incorporating hand-drawn elements such as the sun and fish, adding warmth, energy, and a sense of fluidity. The final and most important step is finishing it with a clear varnish, which provides high protection against moisture and dust. Through this process, I blend tradition with imagination, transforming Hanji paper into landscapes that capture both my memories and the beauty of nature.
Can you tell us about the story of how you became an artist?
I have always been drawing or painting for as long as I can remember. My parents thought I was very different from my siblings, and they gave me their full support in pursuing art. I have always had a good eye for color and was actively involved in various art-related social activities at school. Art has always been a part of my life.
I graduated from an art high school, where I studied ceramics design. From there, I was accepted into university in my hometown, Busan, majoring in fine art and design. During my studies, I gained valuable skills and techniques that helped me develop my own unique artistic style and signature.
Later, I moved to Australia and lived in Broken Hill for over six years, exploring my new home and taking up painting as a hobby. During my time there, I participated in several art exhibitions in Broken Hill and Adelaide.
After six years, I moved to the Sydney and then Blue Mountains, where I continued creating art and showcasing my work in the region. However, it remained more of a hobby since I was always working full-time. But working as a picture framer for last 3 years, I had the amazing opportunity to display my work in the shop starting in early 2024 and I then I got approached by the Gallery here in the Blue mountain and started spending more time on doing my art.
My work has a truly unique style—something you won’t see anywhere else. I never knew what people would think of my art; I simply created what felt right and what I truly enjoyed. Working as a picture framer, I see incredible artwork every day, which has motivated me to create even more. And now, here I am, doing this interview as an artist and sharing my work with everyone.
Can you share some of the highlights you’ve had so far in your artistic career?
I only started showcasing my work early last year after being approached by a gallery here in the Blue Mountains as an artist rather than just a hobbyist. I was very lucky to be part of Affordable Art Fair Sydney 2024, and I had a highly successful experience. It has been one of the best moments in my artistic journey, and I’ve received incredible support and love. That, to me, is the greatest reward and the highlight of my career as an artist. I can’t thank everyone enough for their time, appreciation, and encouragement. I’m excited for the next chapter—whatever that may be. For now, being an artist is only part-time, but I look forward to the day I can become a full-time artist, dedicating all my energy to creating. I hope to continue sharing my work with as many people as possible
'Connection to Place'
Exhibition opening
Saturday, March 22, 2025
from 11 am - 3 pm
Manyung Gallery Mount Eliza,
54 Mt Eliza Way, Mount Eliza
BK Ku will be joining us on the day, come along and view these special works in person.
To register your interest or receive an early preview catalogue, contact mteliza@manyunggallery.com.au or 0438 662 827.