Minwook Kim

Woodturner

A natural freedom conveyed through wood

Minwook is a self-taught woodturner in Busan, South Korea
His woodwork reflects the unique nature and instinct of trees
Inspired by the sea and forest, he reflects freedom in his art

Minwook Kim's artistic journey is far from being a conventional narrative. With a background that included school, military service and an office job, Minwook found himself yearning for a life free from societal expectations. In pursuit of an escape, he immersed himself in woodwork, envisioning a future abroad, and discovered a profound passion for woodturning. Each contact and carving of trees became a source of new challenges, with Minwook seeing the trees as entities that "remain alive even after death." Infusing his art with this longing for freedom, he ensures that each piece is a unique expression, never replicating the same artwork. Even when faced with similar woodwork, he adds a distinctive touch to each creation, accentuating the natural qualities inherent to every tree. Minwook's art reflects his deep connection to natural freedom.

Interview

Did you always want to be a woodturner?: It began for a very practical reason. I yearned to break free from the society I grew up in and moved to Canada, where nobody knew me. There are many trees in Canada, so I thought I should learn some woodworking skills to make a living there. I have always liked trees because they are beneficial to people, both when alive and when cut down.
What kept you immersed in woodturning after your return to South Korea?: My passion for trees deepened during my woodturning training. Witnessing the constant movement of trees, even post-cutting, captivated me. Forming a personal connection with living things kept it interesting. Just as each tree boasts unique grain, colour and shape, my daily work with them takes on a distinct form.
Did you find the freedom you desired?: Absolutely. Now, living in Busan, a tranquil coastal city in South Korea, life unfolds at a more relaxed pace compared to bustling Seoul. This city itself serves as a wellspring of inspiration. Daily strolls in a nearby coastal forest, with the sea and pine trees as companions, foster an environment where I can work at my own rhythm and experiment with new artistic challenges.
How has such a life affected and inspired your artwork?: I never design or sketch. I prioritise forging connections with the trees themselves, avoiding a fixation on shape or form. Living in a city that allows me to intimately observe trees and nature has honed my ability to capture the distinct characteristics of each tree. My art, like the tree I work with, takes shape organically, telling its own unique narrative.

Minwook Kim is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2013