Leather vessels crafted creatively
- Junsu makes vessels from leather strips
- He uses an experimental cross sections coiling method
- His approach to leather is a combination of creativity and craftsmanship
Junsu Kim originally studied metal work at university and graduate school, but became interested in the performance of leather. He took part in a leather workshop in Italy and has been working as a leather craftsman since graduation. After lots of research on how to craft with leather and transform it to make it look more interesting, he was able to present leather in a novel way. With this innovative approach Junsu has become a craftsman in his own field. His inspiration comes from what he observes: colours, structures and textures from plants in his atelier, or landscapes in new places. Junsu says, "The joy and sense of accomplishment from having made something with my own hands naturally led me to continue with this craft."
INTERVIEW
Before going into production, I make a rough sketch. Then I select the leather that matches the image I have in mind and cut it to a certain thickness. I coil and pile up leather strips of different thicknesses and lengths to form a shape. Then I finish by polishing or lacquering the surface.
It is processed with tannin obtained from plants so can be approached in various ways. For example, the surface can be smoothed by friction or deformed by water and tanned and darkened by sunlight. Despite being processed, this material has vitality. I prefer cowhide because it has a denser and stronger tissue than other leathers.
Right now, leather is mainly what I want to use and it may continue to be this way for my works in the future, but I am also open to try other materials.
It is important to strive to create work that reflects your own individuality, and to have expertise in materials. It can take a long time to research, but I think this becomes your best asset. Anyone can come up with creative ideas, but no one can imitate a long practised hand skill.
