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.