The Dia Art Foundation is set to host a significant solo exhibition featuring the renowned artist Lee Ufan, coinciding with the 2026 Venice Biennale. This presentation, curated by Dia director Jessica Morgan, will be officially recognized as a collateral event of the Biennale. The exhibition will open its doors on May 9 at the San Marco Art Centre, offering a comprehensive look into Ufan's artistic journey. This event, alongside a concurrent display at Dia Beacon, commemorates the artist's 90th birthday in June, highlighting his enduring impact on the art world.
Lee Ufan, a pivotal figure in both the Mono-ha and Dansaekhwa movements, is celebrated for his minimalist yet profound works. His art often features stark compositions, such as a few vibrant brushstrokes against a pristine white canvas or a solitary rock juxtaposed with a metal sheet. These deliberate arrangements explore the relationship between materials and space, inviting viewers to engage with the essence of existence and perception.
The upcoming exhibition in Venice is the result of a close collaboration between Morgan and Ufan, aiming to encompass his extensive seven-decade career. It will showcase a range of historical and contemporary paintings and installations, including a unique site-specific commission. Approximately 20 artworks will be distributed across eight galleries within the prestigious Procuratie in Piazza San Marco at SMAC Venice.
Jessica Morgan emphasized Dia's long-standing relationship with Lee Ufan, stating that the Venice presentation underscores their commitment to bringing his art to a wider audience. She noted that Ufan's practice has spanned Korea, Japan, and Europe, and this dual exhibition at SMAC Venice and Dia Beacon will allow for a thorough examination of his artistic evolution across different periods, geographical locations, and cultural contexts. These combined projects will illuminate the consistent rigor of his artistic approach and the lasting relevance of his work in today's art landscape.
The founders of SMAC Venice, Anna Bursaux, David Gramazio, and David Hrankovic, expressed their enthusiasm for the exhibition. They highlighted that this presentation perfectly embodies SMAC Venice's mission to serve as a platform for meaningful institutional partnerships and to feature artists of profound international significance. The exhibition promises to be a testament to Lee Ufan's artistic legacy and his continued influence on contemporary art.