Interview with Yul Cho
Konsthall C: Welcome Yul! So far, how has it been working at Konsthall C? Is there something that you've learned that has surprised you?
Yul Cho: Working at Konsthall C has been fruitful. I have always wanted to do my internship at a small organisation. It is an extraordinary experience to be part of a small team where you can observe everything. I have been thoroughly impressed with the way that the konsthall is able to operate in a relatively independent way. I believe that it occupies a unique position, as neither a public institution dependent on government funds nor a private institution, which allows the konsthall to pursue projects in its own way.
This can not only be seen in the programs but also in how the day to day is conducted at the konsthall. From small things like collectively cleaning the office every week to having space open for discussions around the decolonial process shows the attitude of always striving for new ways of thinking.
K: What about the curatorial process interests you the most? What would you like to learn more about during your time at Konsthall C?
Y: I am interested in how curators connect arts, audiences and institutions. Of course, there is a lot of administrative work to be done in the so-called curatorial practice, but, at the same time, it comes with immense power. Curators decide which artists and which works to show in what context and for whom. I think the most exciting and difficult part of curating is figuring out how to navigate that power due to its ability to shape perceptions. In that sense, I like how Konsthall C situates itself together with the community of Hökarängen and I would like to learn more about how you can create a local meaning as an art space.
K: You studied Scandinavian Studies in Korea, how did they compare to your experience living in Stockholm? Did anything surprise you?
Y: I did my bachelor's in Scandinavian Studies and Cultural Contents in South Korea. The things that I learned in my bachelor’s studies were quite useful in navigating Swedish culture and art. However, when I first came to Sweden and studied at a folkhögskola alongside people with vastly different backgrounds, I was struck by how multi-faceted Swedish society is.
This became even more apparent when I returned this time to study for my master’s in curating. The art scene in Sweden is very much one dimensional in its composition. It almost feels like a bubble of sorts. It is my hope to work on introducing varied perspectives and ideas in the future.
K: What kind of work are you hoping to pursue after your time at Konsthall C?
Y: I would probably stay in Europe after my master's studies. As I mentioned before, I would like to work in the curatorial field focusing on broadening perspectives and introducing different approaches. I would also like to contribute to establishing a connection between the art scene in South Korea and Scandinavian countries.