Widow Recalls Artist’s Final Years

Composer John Cage had strong personal ties with the late artist Paik Nam-june, and had a huge influence on Paik’s art since they both began their careers as unknowns, according to Paik’s widow, Kubota.

Looking back, she said Paik had fought against failing health for nearly 10 years after he suffered a stroke in 1996, and that even though Paik was fed up with his illness, he never grumbled.

“He was very ambitious and strong. The most difficult thing for him to endure during his 10-year struggle with his health was that he couldn’t create art,” Kubota said, “My husband was so friendly and warmhearted that he couldn’t refuse people’s requests. So we sometimes faced hard times and financial difficulties.

“One day after enjoying three meals, he started to breathe hard at bedtime. I called for an ambulance, but by the time it arrived, he died,” said Kubota about Paik’s last moments.

“My husband never felt frustrated because he was so strong,” she added. “I still believe that his soul is with me.”

Meanwhile, Barbara London, a curator at the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) in New York, reported on the same day that the MOMA is planning to hold an exhibition of Paik’s works in May. The Guggenheim Museum in New York also announced it was preparing a special exhibition of Paik’s works.

Moon Bong-ju, the consul general of the Republic of Korea in New York, sent a floral tribute and condolences from President Roh Moo-hyun to the bereaved family on the same day. Funeral services for Paik will be held at 5:00 a.m. on February 4 (Korea time).

Jong sik Kong kong@donga.com