London

Hun-chung Lee

Ceramicist | Yangpyeong, South Korea

Crossing the boundaries of art and geography

Hun-chung creates ceramic works that transcend traditional boundaries between art, design and architecture
His glazing techniques and hand-sculpting processes embrace the unpredictability of materials
He has been making artworks since 1996

Hun-chung Lee is a master ceramicist from Seoul, currently living between Seoul and Los Angeles. He has a background in ceramic sculpture from Hongik University and a PhD in Architecture. Hun-chung makes functional art furniture, ceramic objects, as well as large-scale installations and paintings. His approach involves significant engagement with materials, hand-sculpting each piece and applying multiple layers of glaze. Inspired by nature and human life, Hun-chung's aims to connect cultures through his art, and develops international projects and collaborations around this theme. "To me, boundaries are essential spaces for creativity, and crossing them allows fresh perspectives to surface," he explains.

Interview

Could you share your perspective on the concept of boundaries?: Boundaries are a precious part of my life. In my personal opinion, creative thinking struggles to emerge within rigid categories. I believe that only when standing at the boundary can one grasp an objective position and generate creative value.
What does your daily life as an international artist look like?: I am currently living between LA and Korea. The quiet and calm daily life in LA provides me with new inspiration, while the productive routine in Korea offers a rigorous artistic life.
How do you make your large-scale art furniture pieces from clay?: For me, the act of working with clay resembles the playful attitude of a child. Creating art furniture requires communication with the user, so it necessitates more planning and meticulous preparation. This is because it is not just my own play; it requires consideration for the user.
What is the island project you are currently involved in?: The project is taking place in the Azores, an archipelago in Portugal. Generally, islands are understood as isolated places. However, I wanted to symbolize the island as a bridge connecting people and cultures. There are nine islands, and I am gradually creating works with different content and forms on each island.

Hun-chung Lee is a master artisan: he began his career in 1996 and he started teaching in 1996