Shining DESPAIR
Jina Seo
USA/South Korea

Holding Jewelry “Gut Feelings”, 2023
Leather, Fine silver, sterling silver, brass, pigment, thread
Hydraulic press forming, stitching

Necklace “responsibiLITy”, 2023
Leather, Fine silver, pigment, thread, steel
Hydraulic press forming, riveting, stitching

My work reveals inner conflict and suffering by contrasting societal expectations with the personal turmoil I often experience. Despite knowing what is valued and important in the world, I struggle to align these ideals with my sense of self, often feeling guilty and frustrated that I can’t fully live up to them. Yet, I believe the only way to make a difference is to continue trying. By deconstructing leather jackets and using symbolic gestures from punk culture, I create fine silver patches that embody thought-provoking wordplay. These pieces are reminders of the values I strive to protect, inviting others to reflect on what is important to them.

More « Shining DESPAIR »

Shining Despair – Juan Harnie / Belgium

As a child, I would watch my mother patch up worn garments …

Shining Despair – Elvira Cibotti / Argentina

I don’t always find the energy to overcome sadness or worry.

Shining Despair – Selma Leal / Spain

« The desperation of corals shines before our eyes through their bleaching, »

Shining Despair – Carmen Lopez / Spain

Spinning reflections on the title of the competition.

Shining Despair – Denis Music / Ukraine

The idea of the « Attention » brooch emerged during the challenging days of 2023.

Shining Despair – Yichen Dong & Stacey Huang / China

Many spend their lives chasing ‘key moments,’ …

Shining Despair – Donald Friedlich / USA

For most of us despair comes and goes.

Shining Despair – Taibe Palacios / Chile

Take away the veil of darkness, let us light a fire and we will sit around.

Shining Despair – Sébastien Carré / France

In these complicated times we are living through I feel quite angered …

Shining Despair – Lena Lindahl / Sweden

Half of the world’s coral reefs have vanished since 1950.