Piknic exhibit 'Entrepreneurship' asks what it takes to be a leader

Ernest Shackleton (1874-1922) was an Anglo-Irish explorer who led expeditions across Antarctica in the early 20th century that failed. But even so, they are called the “greatest failures in the world.”

″Fragments″ (2016) by Random International [PIKNIC]

Ernest Shackleton (1874-1922) was an Anglo-Irish explorer who led expeditions across Antarctica in the early 20th century that failed. But even so, they are called the “greatest failures in the world.”

His ship and crew encountered countless obstacles during the monthslong journeys, including having to abandon the ship and contend with shortages of food and shelter. Still, Shackleton did his best to care for his fellow crewmates, keeping every member alive, and this later established him as a symbol of perseverance and outstanding leadership.

A photo taken during Ernest Shackleton's expeditions across the Antarctic in the early 20th century that ended in failure. [SHIN MIN-HEE]

This ordeal is reflected in photographs at the “Entrepreneurship” exhibition at Piknic, a popular exhibition center in Jung District, central Seoul. The show dives into the attitudes and requirements that constitute a successful leader not only as a business member but also in their personal lives. They are explored through the stories of famous corporations or figures, including McDonald’s, Starbucks, Hyundai and the aforementioned Shackleton.

Despite its historically dramatic introduction, the exhibition is lighthearted and filled with hands-on activities to entertain visitors.

One example is an oracle-themed personality test in which anyone can participate after scanning a QR code. “Optical Me, Potential Me” by creative group Rebel9 puts test takers into one of 20 categories after a short quiz, including “hero,” “firefly,” “wizard,” “dancer” and “cutie.” Visitors can thus have their strengths and talents analyzed on the spot.

“Optical Me, Potential Me″ by Rebel9 [PIKNIC]

“Three Socrates” by Min Guhong Manufacturing consists of three computer monitors and keyboards. Using ChatGPT, the work tests if exhibitgoers can approach the essence of an issue through ping-ponging questions. When somebody types in a question, ChatGPT replies with another question, a process inspired by the Socratic method.

Some take a less philosophical approach and require physical cooperation, like in “Walking the Path Together,” a game that relies on teamwork to put a ball into a wooden hole.

Although “Entrepreneurship” highlights accomplishments, the exhibit also acknowledges the need to adopt a more tolerant and accepting attitude toward mistakes and failures. Erik Kessels, a Dutch artist and curator, is known to have turned the narrative of failure around by producing advertisements that intentionally use defective shots. On view is a collection of such photos titled “Failed It!” (2016).

“Walking the Path Together″ by smallstudiosemi [PIKNIC]

After discovering the stories behind the growth of several businesses, visitors can contemplate what they learned in the rooftop lounge of Piknic or head over to its annex, filled with books recommended by food delivery app Baemin’s founder Kim Bong-jin.

“Entrepreneurship” continues until Feb. 18 next year. Piknic is open every day except Mondays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets are 12,000 won ($9) for adults.

BY SHIN MIN-HEE [shin.minhee@joongang.co.kr]