Barim Flexible Art Collective and Research Residency Space

Barim is a flexible art collective and interdisciplinary research residency located in Gwangju, South Korea. Established in 2013, the organization was created to provide a space for artists, researchers, and curators to explore process-based works that move beyond the confines of traditional artistic genres. The name Barim refers to a traditional Korean painting technique involving shading and gradation, which serves as a metaphor for the collective's goal of blending artistic boundaries and fostering trans-local connections. Between 2014 and 2023, Barim operated from a physical studio and media space in the heart of Gwangju, hosting a diverse range of public programs, artist-in-residence sessions, and workshops. The residency program encourages self-funded and self-directed projects, inviting international participants to engage with the local community through exhibitions and interactive sessions. By emphasizing discussion and experimental inquiry over final completion, Barim facilitates a collaborative environment for new media art, choreography, and visual media. Now entering its second season, the collective continues its mission of supporting a decentralized network of creativity and cultural exchange. Barim remains dedicated to intervening in and transcending various artistic disciplines, providing a platform for critical writing, curatorial practice, and innovative performance art. Through its commitment to research and 'working-in-progress,' Barim remains a vital link for local and international practitioners seeking to explore the intersection of art and modern social structures.