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 – Katherine Hubble / Australia

Cultured pearls are created by implanting an irritant into an oyster.

Shining Despair – Arisa Inoue / Japan

It’s not uncommon for darkness to cast a shadow over the human heart.

Shining Despair – Henrike Altes – Germany

Out of the feeling of longing for warmth and the close relationship to a beloved person …

Shining Despair – Denis Music / Ukraine

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

Shining Despair – Gloria Tormo / Spain

What are our despairs, where do they come from …

Shining Despair – Eunhee Cho / South Korea

I have experienced two trials in my life.

Shining Despair – Jounghye Park / South Korea

The ‘Saves’ series is a collection created by layering and carving small pieces of silk fabric …

Shining Despair – Esteban Erosky / Mexico-Spain

Our ability to transform things is so powerful …

Shining Despair – Marta Alonso / Spain

Mayfly, an ephemeral flight and Glimpse the universe …

Shining Despair – Holland Houdek / USA

Words fail in the face of miscarriage.