2024 Gustav Klimt Award: Meet the Two Korean Artists Making Waves—Liwon and Song Soogeun

Picture this: a historic villa in Vienna, the birthplace of legendary artist Gustav Klimt, glowing with the energy of today’s most brilliant creatives. This year, two extraordinary Korean artists—Liwon and Song Soogeun—stepped into the spotlight at the 2024 Gustav Klimt Award, capturing global attention and redefining the boundaries of artistic achievement. From actress-turned-artist to a former government official who found his calling in painting, their stories are as inspiring as their art. Let’s dive in!

So, What’s the Gustav Klimt Award?

If you’re imagining a gold-streaked masterpiece come to life, you’re not far off. The Gustav Klimt Award is an international art competition held at none other than Klimt’s actual birthplace in Vienna, aka the Gustav Klimt Atelier. This isn’t just an award—it’s a golden ticket to global recognition.

Fun fact: Klimt created many of his most iconic works in this villa’s garden house from 1911 until his death in 1918.

And here’s the kicker—winning artworks are exhibited in this historic space. Imagine your art sharing the same walls as a legendary master’s spirit. Dreamy, right?

The award isn’t just about honoring talent; it’s about pushing boundaries. With a jury including Klimt’s great-granddaughter Brigitte Huber Mader (yes, you read that right—actual Klimt DNA), Gustav Klimt Atelier director Bars Alakus, and Vienna University of Applied Arts professor Alexander Edimayer, the bar couldn’t be higher.

Liwon: The Art-Tainer Taking the Stage

Let’s talk about Liwon. Before she was painting masterpieces, she was lighting up our screens as an actress, starring in hit dramas like Iris. But the call of the canvas was too strong, and she traded scripts for paintbrushes, becoming the ultimate Art-tainer (artist + entertainer, if you’re wondering).

Her work? It’s all about blending beauty and relatability, creating pieces that resonate with both the art elite and everyday viewers. And the jury? They were obsessed. Liwon took home the Grand Prize, with her work unanimously celebrated by every single judge.

“This moment feels like a dream,” she said at the award ceremony. “To have my art displayed in such a historic space is an honor beyond words.”

Song Soogeun: A Life Reimagined Through Art

While Liwon’s journey began on the screen, Song Soogeun started his career in government, serving as South Korea’s Vice Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism. A total boss move, but here’s where it gets interesting—after retiring, he turned to painting and never looked back.

Song’s art revolves around profound themes, focusing on what he calls the “roots of a painting”—the story behind the strokes. His dedication paid off with a Participation Award at the Klimt event, giving him another chance to showcase his unique voice on a global platform.

“Painting isn’t just about visuals; it’s an expansion of thought,” Song said. “This award gives me the opportunity to share my work with even more people.”

2024 Gustav Klimt Award: A New Era of Global Art

This year marked the inaugural Gustav Klimt Award, and it’s already proving to be a game-changer. By blending history and innovation, the award not only celebrates exceptional talent but also connects today’s artists with Klimt’s enduring legacy.

For Liwon and Song Soogeun, this milestone is more than just recognition—it’s a gateway to new possibilities and a reminder that creativity knows no limits.

So, who’s next to shine on the golden stage of the Gustav Klimt Award? Keep your eyes on Vienna, because the future of art is just getting started.