Since 2019, Art Sonje Center has consistently extended invitations to marginalized communities, offering them engaging opportunities to partake in art museum visits and educational programs. In a continued effort to promote inclusivity, Art Sonje Center is excited to introduce a new program category, “ASJC Neighbor,” commencing this year. This innovative initiative is purposefully designed to elevate inclusivity and accessibility, with a particular focus on ensuring engagement for individuals with disabilities.

As the initial step in this journey, we proudly present the program “Facing Each Other,” tailored for individuals with hearing impairments and the deaf community. This program explores ways of connection between individuals with hearing impairments, the deaf, and those with typical hearing. Deaf individuals, especially those who rely on sign language, predominantly communicate through body language, including hand gestures and the vital act of maintaining eye contact during conversations. This cornerstone of communication forms the foundation of the “Facing Each Other” program. Empowering the Deaf with Works of Art will be available during the current exhibition, Suh Yongsun: My Name is Red and Jihyun Jung: Hangdog. Instead of passively receiving explanations about the exhibitions, participants will be encouraged to spend more than a minute observing a single artwork. They will engage in open conversations, sharing their thoughts and perceptions. Through this program, participants will leverage their enhanced visual observation skills, which are notably superior to those of individuals with typical hearing, to explore the artworks. Deaf individuals can improve their ability to interpret and communicate with artworks. This experience will also enhance their capacity to observe, appreciate, and express art and life. All of these interactions will be documented and archived.