‘Investigating new material is the key.’
Lee Jae-Hyo
An exhibition Transformations takes place from 11 October to 3 November 2012 in Albemarle Gallery and represents sculptural works by a Korean artist Lee Jae-Hyo. This is the 29th solo exhibition of the artist.
Lee Jae-Hyo’s favourite materials are wood, stone and metal. Utilizing them, the artist creates geometric sculptural objects which feature clear and elegant forms. Most of the sculptures are not only art objects; they could also act as pieces of furniture or other interior elements.
Generally, a combination of material and shape is the main element that forms a basis of Lee Jae-Hyo’s works. ‘My art is about the material,’ says Lee. ‘Everything begins and ends with the material. I simply want to show the nature of my common raw materials.’ Giving a lot of attention to characteristic features of the materials, the artist finds unusual and beautiful combinations like polished steel above burned wood. To achieve this visual effect, Lee Jae-Hyo with assistants hammer nails in a wooden workpiece, burn the whole structure and then polish the nails. Changing its natural colour, wooden surface acts here as a sort of coal canvas for the metal pattern. The effect is absolutely amazing!
We suggest you watching the video below in which Lee Jae-Hyo describes his technique and his views on art.
You could also find a press release of the exhibition and more information about Lee Jae-Hyo on Albemarle Gallery website.