Mun Jung Bear

“What possibilities might emerge as Thai and Korean art intertwine through the portrayal of a bear character?”

JWD Art Space is delighted to announce its first-ever exhibition in our Private Viewing Room. We cordially invite everyone to experience ‘Mun Jung Bear,’ an exhibition featuring the collaborative works of two artists: Preyawit Nilachulaka, also known as Palm Instinct, and Youenmo Koo. This exhibition is a captivating fusion of artistic expressions, where these artists from two different nationalities – Thai and Korean – narrate their distinct stories through the enchanting symbol of a bear. Despite the bears’ contrasting appearances, they beautifully intertwine, creating a seamless connection that is sure to surprise and inspire.

Venue: Private Viewing Room at JWD Art Space, 3rd floor

About the artists

• Preyawit Nilachulaka

Palm Instinct, also known as Preyawit Nilachulaka, is a multi-talented artist who excels not only in music but also in the field of fine art. Apart from his skills in music composition and singing in both Thai and Japanese languages, Preyawit has a deep passion in visual art. He has showcased his works in various exhibitions. However, the upcoming exhibition presents a new and exciting challenge for him as his works will be displayed alongside those of another artist from a different nationality. This show serves as a remarkable platform that facilitates the connection between Thai and Korean art through the common theme of a bear character. Palm reflects on the collaboration, expressing:

“In my previous works, I have often centered around a character named Bob, which sometimes includes the presence of a teddy bear. Interestingly, Youenmo’s works also revolve around the bear character, but from a different perspective that reflects his outlook on life and brings a sense of happiness. Although my works may explore themes of death, one thing that connects us is the presence of the bear character. Therefore, I extend a heartfelt invitation to everyone to engage in conversations and enjoy themselves at the opening party of ‘Mun Jung Bear’.”

• Youenmo Koo

Youenmo Koo is a Korean artist who has developed a deep admiration for Thailand. He obtained his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Fine Art from Gyeongsang National University in Jinju, South Korea. He has gained recognition for his creation of a distinctive character known as “The Cynical Bear.” This character is characterized by its attire, often seen wearing a T-shirt and jeans, and its facial expression, which exudes cynicism. Through the portrayal of “The Cynical Bear,” Youenmo offers a reflection of his own cynical perspective on society. His works have been exhibited in numerous exhibitions including ‘Cynical Bear in Bangkok’ at Artery Post-Modern Gallery (2015), ‘Where are we going now?’ at Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (2016) and ‘I am CB (Cynical Bear) at Trendy Gallery (2017) and his most recent exhibition ‘Mun Jung Bear’ (2023) at JWD Art Space.