JEJU ESCAPE
Dion Bierdrager
In his latest journey, photographer Dion Bierdrager interpreted through is own sensitivity the calm beauty of Jeju Island.
Jeju, South Korea’s largest island, is a volcanic masterpiece renowned for its natural beauty and ecological significance. Located off the southern coast, it was formed two million years ago by volcanic activity, with Hallasan Mountain, a dormant volcano, at its heart. This mountain, South Korea’s tallest peak at 1,947 meters, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its crater lake and unique biodiversity. The island is also home to a network of olle walking trails, allowing visitors to explore its diverse ecosystems sustainably. These paths meander through forests, farmlands, and coastal areas, promoting low-impact tourism.
Historically, Jeju has a rich culture influenced by its isolation. It was once an exile destination during the Joseon Dynasty, and its residents, particularly the haenyeo (women divers), are symbols of resilience and harmony with nature. The haenyeo harvest seafood sustainably, preserving marine life and passing down their knowledge through generations. Jeju is also famous for its sweet, tangy hallabong oranges, which are as iconic as its volcanic landscapes.
Dion Bierdrager
Through his personal work, Dion delves into the impact of urbanization on both landscapes and communities, the significance of what we call “home”, and the complexities of our relations with the natural world.
With a critical yet curious perspective, he explores the intricate relationship between humanity and its environment – be it urban or rural, using his emotions and intuition to guide him in the creative process. By blending traditional printing techniques with a keen sense of color and light, he creates painterly images that are imbued with a sense of intimacy and warmth.
Dion earned his BA from the Royal Academy of Arts in The Hague and is currently based between Amsterdam and Seoul.
