MICHAEL BAASTRUP CHANG

Born 1973, Skanderborg, Denmark

Michael B. Chang in the gallery.

Image courtesy of Thomas Iversen.

Hailing from the Danish countryside, Michael B. Chang was raised by a Danish mother and Korean father, both skilled draughtspersons, instilling him a love for creativity from an early age. Immersed in the tranquil surroundings of Denmark, Chang's childhood was adorned with sketches inspired by TV shows and art books, laying the groundwork for his future as a painter.


After studying visual arts in London, Chang made his debut as a painter in Copenhagen in 2008, marking the beginning of a journey that transcends traditional artistic boundaries.


Beyond painting, Chang has engaged in collaborative endeavors spanning theater productions and video projects, showcased across continents. In his art, Chang strive to harmonize his Scandinavian roots with Korean heritage, infusing abstract compositions with a blend of Nordic subtlety and Eastern spirituality. Each artwork becomes a conduit for personal introspection and profound expression, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of self-discovery.


Drawing from artistic predecessors like Malevich and Rothko, Chang navigate his own artistic path with self-imposed constraints guiding his process. This meticulous approach, from pigment selection to print execution, allows him to focus on the essence of creation, transcending mere technique to evoke emotional resonance.


Through printmaking - one of Chang's strong capabilities - his find solace in the dialogue and collaboration inherent in the artistic process. Each print is not just a visual statement but a testament to the transformative power of creativity, where experimentation and introspection converge to illuminate the human experience.

In the tapestry of existence, his prints are fragments of a narrative, both unique and interconnected, essential to our collective understanding of the world. Just as memories shape our perceptions, Chang's art reflects the interplay between past and present, inviting viewers to contemplate the fluidity of existence and the beauty of the human spirit.


Artist Statement


"I feel that if we want to know our history and look at the development of our culture the information provided by art and arts history is of the essence. I strive to create works of art, which are independent of me as an individual, yet, intimate and felt. I am particularly interested in monochromes. Eastern and Western art are culturally disparate; Western monochromes originally point out a reactionary response to the dominance of naturalism in fine arts in the 19th Century, while painters in Korea have sought access to spiritual equilibrium with nature through their monochromatic brush strokes. My bicultural heritage is reflected in my work." Michael B. Chang.


For more info, please visit Michael B. Chang in cyberspace


michaelchang.dk

artfacts.net/artist/michael-chang

artsy.net/artist/michael-baastrup-chang

instagram.com/michaelchang.dk