Gallerist Rosa Park has opened a space in Los Angeles to showcase the work of Korean artists and designers, with interiors by local studio BC intended to reflect the country's visual culture.
Francis Gallery LA is Park's second location and is an expansion of her original gallery in Bath, UK ? both presenting the work of emerging Korean artists.
Places of worship informed the interiors of the gallery on Melrose Avenue
Situated on Melrose Avenue in West Hollywood, the new space was designed with Lindsey Chan and Jerome Byron, founders of LA-based BC.
The duo preserved the building while transforming the inside with references to traditional Korean architecture and art.
The inaugural exhibition displays the work of six artists, including photography by Koo Bohnchang These include a curved partition wall influenced by a moon jar and a contemporary re-interpretation of a hanok courtyard.
"The space was conceived to pay homage to Korean art and design in subtle ways ? whether it was in the curve of a partition wall, the colour palette of the interior paints, or the profile of a low bench in the courtyard," said Park.
BC designed the gallery to be pared-back yet warm
Places of worship like chapels and monasteries were also referenced in the design. These were accentuated by the use of "humble materials" and pared-back forms.
Although minimal, the intention was to ensure the gallery still felt warm and inviting, as well as provide an appropriate setting for the...