In the quiet landscapes of Muui-do, Incheon, a unique intersection of architectural utility and fine art is emerging. Kim Hong-min, CEO of European plastering specialist Sumto, is redefining the boundaries between construction materials and therapeutic expression through a series of “texture art” initiatives designed to foster healing and cultural accessibility.
The movement, centered around the “Sumto Story” philosophy, leverages the tactile and chemical properties of natural soil to create art that serves both an aesthetic and a psychological purpose. By transitioning functional wall coatings into canvas-based art, Kim is bridging the gap between technical interior design and cultural management, focusing on how natural elements can alleviate the stresses of modern urban life.
Recently, this vision culminated in a specialized texture art event held at the Muui Art Center. The program brought together students from Inha University’s graduate school specializing in Cultural Management, creating a collaborative environment where the technical application of European plastering met the academic study of cultural integration. For the participants, the experience was less about traditional painting and more about the physical manipulation of natural minerals to evoke emotion.
The Evolution of European Plastering Texture Art
The origin of Kim Hong-min’s approach was not rooted in the art gallery, but in practical problem-solving. The development of Sumto’s natural plaster began as a response to common residential issues, specifically the struggle against condensation and mold in verandas and utility rooms. By utilizing Yanggu white clay as a primary base, Kim developed a natural coating material characterized by superior antibacterial, deodorizing, and humidity-regulating properties.
This functional success eventually caught the attention of the creative community. Florists were among the first to recognize the aesthetic appeal of the soil’s organic texture, which provided a neutral yet sophisticated backdrop for botanical displays. This organic growth led to an increased demand in commercial sectors, particularly in cafes and high-end commercial spaces where the “European plaster” look—characterized by depth, movement, and a matte, earthy finish—became a sought-after design element.
The transition from wall coating to “texture art” allows these materials to be used on a smaller, more intimate scale. During the recent event at the Muui Art Center, ten participants utilized palette knives to spread natural pigments across canvases. The resulting works were noted for their soft, pastel tones and a physical dimensionality that traditional paint cannot achieve, reflecting the inherent mineral qualities of the soil.
Integrating Art with Marine Healing
Beyond the gallery and the home, Kim has expanded the application of these materials into the realm of wellness through “Sumto Friend,” a marine healing program. Operating in conjunction with the Muui Art Center and located near Hanagae Beach, the program utilizes mud and natural clay to facilitate artistic expression as a form of therapy.
These programs are specifically designed to be inclusive, extending the reach of artistic healing to socially vulnerable populations, including residents of nursing homes and individuals with disabilities. By using “Sumto Lime”—a material known in the European plastering world—participants are encouraged to explore the tactile nature of mineral pigments, which serves as a grounding exercise in mindfulness.
The “Sumto Friend” initiative emphasizes the understanding of mineral components and the sensory experience of working with earth. By integrating the natural environment of Muui-do with the physical act of mud painting, the program aims to provide a holistic healing experience that combines the therapeutic benefits of the sea with the grounding properties of the earth.
The Technical and Social Impact of Natural Materials
The core of the Sumto approach lies in the chemistry of the materials. The leverage of Yanggu white clay and lime-based compounds is not merely an aesthetic choice; these materials are breathable, allowing walls (and by extension, the art pieces) to interact with the environment. In a construction context, this prevents the buildup of moisture and the growth of fungi, creating a healthier indoor atmosphere.
When translated into a social program, this “breathability” becomes a metaphor for emotional release. The act of using a knife to sculpt texture into a canvas allows participants to express internal states through physical pressure, and movement. This is particularly effective for those who may discover traditional verbal therapy or precise drawing intimidating.
The collaboration with Inha University’s Cultural Management students further underscores the intent to professionalize this intersection of art and wellness. By studying how to connect technology (the chemical properties of plaster) with culture (the act of creation), the program seeks to create a sustainable model for community-based art therapy that can be replicated in other regions.
Key Components of the Sumto Artistic Approach
| Material/Program | Primary Function | Artistic/Healing Application |
|---|---|---|
| Yanggu White Clay | Antibacterial & Humidity Control | Base for pastel-toned texture art |
| Sumto Lime | European Plastering Coating | Mineral exploration and tactile painting |
| Sumto Friend | Marine Healing Program | Mud painting for social inclusivity |
| Texture Art Event | Cultural Management Study | Collaborative creation with university students |
As the program continues to evolve, the focus remains on the “expansion of healing.” By moving from the resolution of household mold issues to the creation of art for the disabled and elderly, Kim Hong-min is demonstrating how industrial materials can be repurposed for human-centric wellbeing.
The next phase of the “Sumto Friend” initiative includes the announcement of a second session for the mud painting program, continuing the effort to integrate the natural landscape of Muui-do with accessible artistic practice.
We invite our readers to share their thoughts on the intersection of sustainable building materials and art therapy in the comments below.
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