Donghae Kim

Provenance: Directly from the artist

Dong-hae Kim (b.1987) is a Korean artist based in Seoul who creates objects resembling nature based on metal craft.

Kim first started realizing the beauty of large-scale goldsmith sculptural pieces after viewing the famous Norwegian jewelry designer Tone Vigeland’s exhibition mentions that observations and feelings from his daily life and moments captured in nature are sources of inspirations for his works. He often takes source from mundane sightings such as swaying leaves in the wind to industrial production techniques commonly used on construction sites for his crafting process.

The artist states, “While well-cultivated plants are delightful, I have a fondness for noticing weeds and grasses while walking. This led me to embark on a project of capturing the forms and movements of these wild plants in my artwork. I'm interested in the relationship between the objects and the space they inhabit. The works I create reflect my contemplation of the space beyond the functional aspects, as I found myself often focusing on the upper part of the space when placing objects on shelves or tables, neglecting the outer space. This consideration extends to the spaces beyond the functional, highlighting my interest in the relationship between the objects (obtuse) and the spaces they occupy.”

On his choice of material, the artist states, “Metal is solid and strong. With delicate lines or a thin sheet, one can create efficient and robust structures. This characteristic is evident in objects I create, including ornaments. Another allure of metal is its versatility. When I first encountered metal, I was captivated by its color and luster. The physical sensations of metal—such as strength, solidity, coolness, malleability, and warmth—are described with diverse expressions, much like the endless charm of metal itself.”

Landscape I, a standing sculpture made by hanging thin brass wires on stone draws inspiration from the form of tall grass. When placed higher up in the air, its movement is affected by the direction of the wind. The intricately handcrafted metal units gradually take on the sculptural qualities of various parts of plants, such as the gracefully tapering leaves and the segmented structure of delicate branches. Small rods and plates borrow the form of mobiles, clustering in space, ultimately embodying the distinct shape and movement of plants.