Making Blue
Kim Hyun-ju explores the ancient decorative techniques of mother-of-pearl to give a living palette to lifeless metal. Her innovative blue works are made of fine white mother-of-pearl. Just visible is the underlay of Ottchil, the traditional lacquer which Kim applies first onto the metal. The subtle movement created in the seamless exterior resembles an impressionist painting. Kim uses the natural palette of the shells in juxtaposition, the material’s endless subtle colours and reflections recalling the movement of the gentle sea. The award-winning artist’s works are in world-renowned private and public collections including the MET, USA and the V&A, UK.