The essence of the Korean term meot encompasses charm, style, elegance, beauty, and creativity, along with highly refined aesthetic sensibilities. Frank Bayley (1939–2022), a generous art patron and distinguished collector of East Asian art along with Western prints and drawings, embodied the philosophy of meot as he appreciated and promoted Korean art and culture. The term describes not only his art collection but also his friendships, particularly with Korean artists. During his lifetime, he gifted 86 works to the Seattle Art Museum, and a significant bequest upon his passing contributed over 280 additional artworks to the museum.

In tribute to Frank Bayley's generosity and legacy, this exhibition highlights Korean artworks created by seven of his close artist friends, alongside traditional works that he cherished for nearly half a century. Featuring over 60 artworks, including ceramics, calligraphy, paintings, and wooden works, the Meot exhibition illustrates Bayley's collecting vision: he admired both the continuity and innovation within traditional artworks and contemporary artistic expressions of Korean art. Similarly, the contemporary artists featured in the exhibition explore creativity while delving into Korean identities in their works and practices.

Meot is guest curated by Hyonjeong “HJ” Kim Han, Joseph de Heer Curator of Arts of Asia at the Denver Art Museum.