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As soon as “Art for Life” opened, musicians, photographers,
poets, entrepreneurs, professors, doctors and passersby in love
with classical music flocked to their establishment. Many customers
were introduced to the establishment based on word of
mouth recommendations. But guests of “Art for Life” always
return and now, seven years later, they have become the cafe’s
family. Regulars gather each week on a volunteer basis to perform
and recite poems, partake in delectable cuisine and drink. Then,
at the end of the day, profits are sent to help those in need.
A FESTIVE LIFE At the entrance of the cafe are the words “A
Festive Life.” The phrase, which would seem to echo the premature
epitaph of a musician’s life well-lived, is meant to inspire visitors
to define what happiness means to them. Though it may seem
at odds with those the couple wishes to help (those suffering from
misfortune), the catchphrase became the couple’s life slogan after
they found religion. Seong graduated from Hanyang University’s
College of Music, majoring in the oboe, and became a member of
the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra at the age of 21. He lectured at
Hanyang University, Sookmyung Women’s University and
Chung-Ang University and was on the short path to success.
Seong Pil-gwan, 55, is an oboist and the owner of the cafe “Art for Life” (opposite). The
cafe’s entrance is seen covered in snow (top) and a monochromatic sign indicates the
restaurant concert hall (above).
KOREA
FEBRUARY
2010
23