My artistic journey began with deep experiences in my childhood, which have continuously expanded into a profound exploration of existence. Along this path, I encountered a worldview rooted in natural philosophy and Eastern thought, as I sought to find myself.
The worldview reflected in my work revolves around core values of change, growth, harmony, and interconnection. I view the world as a process of continuous cycles, where all beings exist in balance between opposing forces—light and darkness, hope and loss, life and death. This worldview is grounded in the principles of natural philosophy, where these forces are not independent but complement each other, driving transformation and growth.
After experiencing personal loss in my childhood, I unexpectedly found solace in the traditional Korean earthenware vessel, ‘Siru’. The rough exterior of the Siru mirrored my inner state, while the growing bean sprouts inside symbolised the possibilities of hope and vitality. This experience became a turning point, transforming my grief into creative energy and marking the beginning of my recovery through art. Thus, the Siru became a central motif in my work.
The Siru is more than just a traditional tool. The bean sprouts growing within it are symbols of change and growth, and serve as a key metaphor for transformation and harmony in my art. As a child, I viewed the siru simply as an unattractive pot, almost a discarded object. However, as time passed, I began to see the possibility of change and hope in the yellow bean sprouts growing in the dark space. The sprouts emerging from the darkness and blooming into bright yellow became an important symbol in my art, leading me to explore the duality of light and darkness—opposing yet interconnected forces.
Like the bean sprouts growing in the Siru, all beings experience growth and transformation through darkness and suffering, ultimately emerging in new forms. This idea extends beyond personal experience, suggesting that all existence carries within it an inherent vitality and the potential for transformation. Based on this worldview, I explore how art can connect our inner selves with the external world, acting as an important medium for healing and growth
My art is centered around self-discovery and inner healing. I visualise the energy of personal emotions through color and form, aiming to explore the essence of existence and the invisible forces at play. These forces manifest in each individual’s life and experience, and I seek to unravel them through artistic exploration. I believe that the process itself can become an important journey toward inner healing and growth.