Joo Hyung Park

Artist

Shortly after becoming an artist, my fascination with wood emerged. Despite its ubiquitous presence in everyday life, I stumbled upon wood by chance, and it has since become an indispensable medium for me. Each piece of wood’s unique grain patterns, akin to fingerprints, captivate me the most.

This distinctiveness aligns with my pursuit of creating one-of-a-kind artwork. When I select raw wood, its unpredictable grain patterns and response to my touch present an engaging challenge, making wood carving a time-intensive yet rewarding endeavor in which I build a rapport with the material.

Like a painter with a canvas, I use chisels to carve the wood, coaxing dynamic grain patterns. Gradually, as I shape the wood and it dances to a new rhythm, it resembles a winding ribbon in motion. The wood retains its natural lines but allows for creative adaptation, much like its gradual accumulation of precious grain patterns over time. I admire its flexibility and strength and strive to embody these qualities.

Upon completing a piece, two patterns emerge: one crafted during carving by both the wood and me, and the other formed as I peel away layers of natural lacquer (ottchil). These patterns merge, unveiling the wood’s origin, journey, and essence. Just as these patterns coalesce on wood, I aspire to be a person who adapts to change and harmoniously coexists with others.

Education

2012 MFA in Metalwork and Jewellery, Royal College of Art, London, UK

2010 BFA in Jewelry and Metals, Rhode Island School of Design, RI, USA

Selected Awards and Collections

2023 Victoria & Albert Museum, London, UK

2021 The Montreal Fine Arts Museum, Montreal, Canada

2019 Museum of Arts and Design, New York, USA

LOOT Acquisition Prize, Museum of Arts and Design, USA

2016 Art Aurea Award 2016, Main Prize Winner, Germany

2013 Itami International Contemporary Jewellery Exhibition, Selected, Japan

International competition TALENTE 2013, Selected, Germany