SAVE JEJU ISLAND

[green cat]

Dear all,

 

Ten years ago many of us took part in PEACE ISLAND, Jeju International Mail Art Show 2001. The show was curated by Young-Jay Lee, Ki-Ho Park, John Held, Jr. and Ryosuke Cohen. It was sponsored by the Jeju Culture & Art Foundation.

 

Remember? The works had been sent off before 9/11 and peace looked as an option.

 

In 2011 we are facing a completely different picture.

 

http://www.savejejuisland.org reads:

 

The Joongduk coast of Gangjeong Village in Jeju Island is now suffering. In 2006, Jeju Island was designated as an Island of Peace for the purpose of consoling the deep sorrow of the April 3rd Massacre. And the Joongduk coast was appointed as a Biosphere Reserve, World Heritage Site, and Global Geological Park by UNESCO. It is an Absolute Preservation Area, which is now being threatened by the naval base construction. (End of citation)

 

The planned military naval base is a threat to peace. And it is a perversion of many Mail Artists' commitment to a more peaceful future.

 

The inhabitants of Gangjeong are decidedly opposing the Korean Navy's project. Is there a way Mail Artists can assist them in their struggle for a place that honestly deserves the name PEACE ISLAND?