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 – Yichen Dong & Stacey Huang / China

Many spend their lives chasing ‘key moments,’ …

Shining Despair – Eunhee Cho / South Korea

I have experienced two trials in my life.

Shining Despair – Aimee Howard-Clinger / USA

The western world can be defined by the adage ‘knowledge is power’.

Shining Despair – Deimezi Xenia / Greece

Behind and in front of what is visible.

Shining Despair – Uri Samet / Israel

From circumstances defined mostly by despair, anguish and darkness – small fragments of light emit.

Shining Despair – Esteban Erosky / Mexico-Spain

Our ability to transform things is so powerful …

Shining Despair – Juan Harnie / Belgium

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

Shining Despair – Eliane-Catrie Blouin Achim / Canada

With the Rose Cochon series, Éliane-Catrie Blouin Achim expresses a profound sense of despair.

Shining Despair – Anna Talbot / Norway

The series ‘Pressed Flowers’ is inspired by my memories of my grandfather’s garden from my childhood.

Shining Despair – Willy vande Velde / Belgium

The ring is part of the communication series.