Vetri is pleased to present “Unnatural Nature,” an exhibition of new work by Korean ceramicist Yoonjee Kwak. Influenced by the traditional symbolism of vessels within Korean culture, Kwak crafts improbably intricate ceramic sculptures that are visual metaphors for human relationships and characteristics.
Kwak says of her work: “The work in the show ‘Unnatural Nature’ incorporates organic and architectural elements into the structure of my open (perforated) vessels and uses the shape as a metaphor for people who interact with their external character. When the ‘vessel’ of a person is open, they can have genuine connections with their environment. Therefore, my open vessel-shaped pieces indicate various depths of personal relationships. In addition, by employing natural and organic arboreal shapes, I intend to illustrate our relationships with nature. I use these natural occurrences as metaphorical and literal references to represent human relationships. As nature cannot exist without the interaction of its many interrelated parts, man cannot live alone. In this sense, human relationships resemble the laws of nature.”
Opening reception: Thursday, September 2nd, 5-8PM (face masks are required)
On view through October 2nd