JiSook Jung has long been drawn to clay for its inherent malleability. “Clay has the advantage that I can quickly transform an image in my mind into a visual form because it is soft and plastic,” the Seoul-based artist tells Colossal. “In that sense, I think clay is an intuitive and instinctive material.”
Jung’s pensive, abstracted creatures emerge from limbs and minimal – or even no – facial features. Each piece is vaguely animalistic, reminiscent of the weather, elements and organic textures. A cloud walks on four legs, a green flame looks at us with two beady eyes, or a wavy blue creature takes on the physical persona of the wind.
Many of Jung’s works tap into universal human experiences and concerns, such as dreams, possibilities, and ego. “Potential,” for example, highlights a slightly bulbous, pink shape standing on four legs, as if preparing for a metamorphosis into something completely new.
Jung’s work has recently shifted from an emphasis on figures to more abstracted creatures, focusing on textures and color. After an experience that had a deep impact on her personal life, she felt encouraged to explore new directions in her work. “I’m coming out of my old shell and welcoming a new world,” she says.
Jung opens a solo exhibition on November 16 at Simple object in Taipei. Find more at Instagram.
