We recently connected with Ju-hyung Park and have shared our conversation below.

Ju-hyung, appreciate you joining us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

My life is truly enriched by the presence of art. The joy I experience in creating, materializing my imagination, and showcasing my work to connect with others brings profound happiness. Through art, I find meaningful interactions with a diverse audience.

Radios and music, always within reach, serve as constant sources of inspiration. The process of creation is fueled by continuous influxes of new ideas and energy from these artistic companions. Additionally, occasional getaways provide moments of mental rejuvenation, allowing me to discover joy in the simple pleasures of everyday life. These moments become wellsprings of inspiration for my creative endeavors.

Even on weekdays, I occasionally take breaks to relish the freedom that comes with being an artist. This freedom, more extensive than that of many working in conventional occupations, allows me to concentrate on my creative work and explore innovative ideas without constraints.

Certainly, challenges arise, but my choice to pursue this way instills in me a sense of confidence and certainty. The pleasure of communicating with the world through my work and the joy of creating something new consistently enrich my life. These experiences not only offer greater skills and opportunities for personal development but also fuel a growing passion for walking the path of an artist.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Born (1985) in Seoul, South Korea, I make functional objects such as lighting, tableware, and jewelry. I combine traditional techniques such as sheet metal forming that I have polished up over a long time with digital processes that allow me to build a variety of ideas and shapes. I’m an MFA candidate in the Metals / Jewelry / CAD-CAM department at Temple University Tyler School of Art and Architecture. I earned my BFA and MFA in metalwork and jewelry from Kookmin University in Seoul. My work has been in exhibitions in France, Germany, and South Korea.

As an artist who explores the relationship between digital processes and hand-fabrication techniques while creating functional objects, I utilize digital technology as an essential tool to transform creative ideas into reality. Hand-fabrication techniques that I have polished up over a long time infuse my works with a unique sensibility and distinctiveness. This fusion is evident in my creations, showcasing a beautiful harmony between contemporary technology and traditional craftsmanship. My art delves into the interplay between the past and the present, human and machine, as I explore creative diversity and the potential of technology. Through this, I aim to offer viewers new perspectives and experiences.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I have experienced the most significant ray of hope during my toughest times. Our shared studio caught fire, and I found myself burdened with debts nearing $70,000. In a moment when I contemplated abandoning my life as an artist, an opportunity to participate in the Maison&Objet Paris exhibition presented itself. The exhibition turned out to be relatively successful, allowing me to persist in my life as an artist up to this point.

This challenging period marked a new beginning for me. Despite the loss of precious works in the fire, the experience emerged as an opportunity to cultivate resilience and creativity. The effort and dedication during that time were recognized at the Maison&Objet Paris exhibition, opening wider doors in the realm of art.

Success at the exhibition continued to unfold, leading to new projects and collaboration opportunities. Through these, I could introduce more artworks to the world. Such experiences have instilled in me the strength to face any adversity and persistently pursue my dreams.

The life of an artist is filled with uncertainty and challenges, yet my passion and belief in art consistently guide me. Overcoming any obstacle and continually growing in this journey, I find constant inspiration and satisfaction.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding moment in the process of creating art as a metalsmith is when useful objects for everyday life are crafted, and they seamlessly integrate into customers’ daily routines, radiating light. This is because when the crafted pieces find a place in daily life, art acts as a gateway for communication with life.

Craftsmanship enables artistic enjoyment within living spaces, and its significance lies in the natural integration of art into life. By owning and using artworks created by artists, customers come to appreciate beauty and artistic value in their everyday lives. Such experiences make people realize that art is closely connected to and embedded in their daily routines, going beyond simple appreciation.

Furthermore, the role of an artist extends beyond creating beautiful works. As an artist, my goal is to convey messages addressing societal issues such as excessive commercialism, transient consumerism, and environmental destruction through art. Through this, I hope to stimulate a shift in people’s thoughts and awareness. Having this social responsibility and creating with a sense of purpose adds another layer of gratification to being an artist.

In summary, the greatest satisfaction as an artist comes from infusing art into the daily lives of customers, fostering communication with life, and simultaneously delivering societal messages that contribute to positive changes in society.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://juhyungpark.com
• Instagram: jh.alchemist
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/metalpjh/
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/ju-hyung

Image Credits
1. A Facade, 10g Aluminum boxes, acrylic, resin, 545 x 284 x 290 mm, 2023 2. A Facade. 35.7g, Brooch, Aluminum, Stainless Steel, 132 x 112 x 89 mm, 2023 3. A Facade. 35,4g, Brooch, Aluminum, stainless steel, 150 x 125 x 90 mm, 2023 4. A Facade. 26.5g, Brooch, Aluminum, stainless steel, 128 x 110 x 80 mm, 2023 5. Convergence(Stool), StainlessSteel, 420(h) x 520 x 490 mm, 2017 6. Convergence(Pendant Lamp), Brass, 250(h) x 180 x 165 mm, 2015 7. Convergence, Brass, Lacquer, 205(h) x 260 x 200mm, 2017 8. Silver Pot, Stering Silver, Rosales, 220(h) x 300 x 100 mm, 2010