Telfair Museums in Savannah is currently showcasing a solo exhibition titled “ookee” as part of their #art912 series at the Jepson Center. The exhibition runs until September, 2023 and features the work of Savannah-based artist and SCAD motion media professor Duff Woon Yong.
The #art912 exhibition series was introduced in 2016 to highlight and collaborate with local artists, with Yong being the newest featured artist. Yong’s work is inspired by automatic drawing and Chinese ink painting. He primarily works on surfaces such as wood panels, recycled paper, and found objects. His art features amebic-like creatures called “ookee” that spread, wrap around, or overtake their support, pulsating with intensity as if beyond the artist’s control.
The exhibition features immersive murals designed specifically for the #art912 gallery and an original soundtrack by musician Tori Kurtz in collaboration with Yong.
“Duff’s art is imbued with tremendous joy and freedom. This is palpable in the exhibition, and it encourages visitors of all ages and backgrounds to engage with the work more freely,” said Anne-Solène Bayan, the curator of the exhibition.
As guests immerse themselves in the gallery, they are invited to name any artwork in Yong’s exhibition by writing a word or description on a sticker and placing it next to the work. For a chance to win a piece of art by the Telfair #art912 artist, visitors must take a photograph of their sticker(s), post it to Instagram, and tag @jepsoncenter, @ookeeman, and @smolcurator. Yong will pick his favorite title at the end of every month and give the winner one of his creations.
In addition to the exhibition, there will be a special artist-led event for Telfair Contemporaries (TC) members on Thursday, June 29 at 6 p.m. at the Jepson Center. During the event, attendees will join Duff Woon Yong for an exhibition tour, with a special prize awarded at the end of the evening. To learn more about TC or join the group, please click HERE.
Throughout the summer of 2023, Yong will make art in the exhibition space, affording visitors opportunities to meet and witness his process.
