Interview
Ryujeong (Yujeong) Han
Ryujeong (Yujeong) Han, a contemporary Korean visual, jewelry artist, blends her rich expertise in fine art, fashion design, and jewelry & metalwork to challenge and redefine societal norms. Her journey in the world of art and design commenced at Ewha Womans University, where she earned her degrees in Fine Art and Fashion Design in 2021. She further honed her skills in Jewelry & Metalwork, graduating from the Rhode Island School of Design in 2023. Ryujeong's artistry has been showcased in prominent exhibitions, including the 2022 Dye House Providence, World’s Fair Gallery, SNAG exhibition, and New York Jewelry Week's Dream Machine and Sol-Koffler Gallery in Providence. Additionally, she participated in “Still Processing” by SNAG and “Adorned Serenity” by Queer Metalsmith in 2023. Ryujeong's work is deeply interwoven with the ongoing dialogues surrounding women and minorities in Korea. Her art transcends traditional boundaries, employing an eclectic mix of mediums such as wearable art, metalwork, 3D printing, electroforming, and video to create pieces. Through her innovative approach and commitment to societal commentary, Ryujeong Han continues to inspire and challenge the norms, positioning herself as a significant voice in contemporary art.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the contemporary art jewelry world?
“My academic background started in fine arts, but as time passed, I found myself drawn to more personal and human-centric art forms. The turning point came unexpectedly at a fashion show, which captivated me and sparked a new direction in my career. I then ventured into fashion design, where I unexpectedly developed a passion for jewelry. For me, jewelry transcends mere adornment; it's a medium that connects with the individual's personal history and memories. The way it interacts with the wearer fascinated me, leading me deeper into the realm of jewelry art. This transition has been a profoundly fulfilling part of my artistic journey.”
What inspires you?
“My inspiration often comes from the world around me - the news, daily events, and especially from my own emotions and experiences. These personal aspects deeply influence my work, giving it a unique perspective. While the themes I explore in my art are personal, they are universal in nature, resonating with experiences common in modern life. My goal is to create connections with people through these relatable themes, bridging the personal and the universal.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“Growing up in Korea, I was deeply influenced by its traditional and conservative culture. Aspects like the patriarchal structure, the preference for male children, discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community, and the pressure of societal norms have profoundly shaped my artistic expression. These ongoing issues of discrimination in modern Korean society are a recurring theme in my art. My objective goes beyond creating visually appealing art; I strive to stir emotions and thoughts, challenging people to think critically. My art is a medium to inspire others to break free from the shackles of societal conformity and prejudice, thereby empowering them to express their true selves more freely.”
“My inspiration often comes from the world around me - the news, daily events, and especially from my own emotions and experiences.”
How would you describe your work?
“I view my creations as more than just body adorment; they are conduits for social commentary. My intention is for people to see beyond the aesthetic appeal of my pieces. I want them to wear the jewelry, feel its weight and texture, and engage with it on a deeper level. It's important to me that wearers connect with the underlying messages and meanings crafted into each piece. My work is designed to be both a physical experience and a thought-provoking journey.”
What are the differences between contemporary art jewelry and industrial jewelry work?
“Working as a contemporary art jewelry artist and a designer at 'Anna Hu Haute Joaillerie' has given me insights into the distinct natures of these realms. In contemporary art jewelry, there's a strong focus on the artist's personal experiences and emotions. This contrasts with high jewelry design, where there's a heightened sensitivity to market trends and the preferences of clients and consumers. Despite apparent similarities, these fields diverge significantly in their essence, creative direction, and target audiences. Each has its unique spirit and purpose in the world of jewelry.”
What is your creative process like?
“Before starting a project, I first conduct historical and cultural research relevant to my inspiration. Unlike some other art forms, it's vital for me to understand the intended audience for my work – who will wear or view it. This understanding guides my selection of materials, where I pay close attention to the texture, weight, and color, ensuring they align perfectly with the theme and resonate with the intended wearer or viewer.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“While each artist may have their own pursuits, I believe the role of an artist extends beyond superficial art. We, as artists, are tasked with evoking emotions and stimulating thoughts, breaking through the everyday monotony to offer fresh perspectives. This aspect of art encourages continuous self-exploration and expression. In this light, my artistic journey is ever-evolving, serving as a guiding force. It motivates me to amplify marginalized voices, inspiring them to express themselves more boldly and assertively in society.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“I recently participated in the 'Adorned Serenity' exhibition at New York Jewelry Week, which took place from November 2nd to the 29th. The exhibition delved into how jewelry can offer comfortable space to minority groups. A personal highlight was presenting my 'Power Make Up! Series,' a deeply influential project in my current work. This series, designed as talismans, emphasizes the power of self-expression in oppressive environments. These pieces are more than jewelry; they symbolize personal empowerment and defiance against constricting societal norms. The exhibition was an enlightening experience, showcasing a variety of views from contemporary jewelry artists about the individual and societal significance of their creations.”
