“The Seolsan (SnowyMountain) series begins by forming dark clay into long coils and building up the shape by stacking them line by line. Once the form is complete, I use a brush to sketch the overlapping shapes of the mountains that come to mind. Then, dipping the brush into white slip, I build up marks one by one, applying each dot as if placing points, gradually building up layers of brush marks.

The completed works-built through the layering of clay and slip-resonate with the way thoughts accumulate over time in my own life. Though slow, this gradual revealing of form mirrors not only my experience, but also that of others. We face repetitive routines in the same place each day, yet within them, our thoughts and actions steadily build, layer upon layer, until one day they inevitably bear fruit. With this quiet sense of hope and expectation, I continue to live through each day with steady perseverance. Through my work, I hope to offer a small sense of comfort and solace to myself, and to those who may feel worn down by the repetition of everyday life.

In South Korea, where I live, mountains are always present wherever I go and in whatever region or city I visit. Perhaps that is why I often find myself gazing at the mountains. In those brief moments of gazing at the mountains, the countless worries and anxieties in my mind quietly come to a pause. Looking back, I realise that those moments were a source of relief and stability for me.

It is my hope that these experiences and reflections might reach those who encounter the Seolsan works, offering them a similar moment of pause and quiet reassurance.”