Crafting a contemporary language
- In Sam Woong's work, tradition is a living language of design
- Wood, metal and mother-of-pearl coexist in his furniture series
- He develops each piece as a celebration of a certain material
Working across wood, metal and mother-of-pearl, Sam Woong Lee develops objects that translate Korean craft traditions into contemporary expression. Trained in woodworking and furniture design, Sam Woong's practice begins with a deep consideration of each material’s structure, symbolism and physical behaviour. Wood remains central to his work for its warmth, versatility and ability to harmonize with other materials, while metal and mother-of-pearl introduce contrast, reflection and tension. In his mother-of-pearl works, organic forms capture shifting light, transforming a traditional material into a sculptural presence. "Between function and beauty, my works emphasize meaning and form over technique alone," explains Sam Woong. "Craft is not a relic of the past, but a living, evolving expression of the present."
Interview
- What comes first when you begin a new work?
- I begin by considering the meaning and structure of the material. Most works start from the material itself, and its physical properties shape how I interpret form and function. Technique and time matter, but experience allows me to resolve those gradually through the process.
- How did you begin working with mother-of-pearl?
- While developing the Octopus series, I became interested in mother-of-pearl as interest in traditional materials was rising in Korea. Though often seen as outdated, I found its light refined and rich, and explored organic forms that reveal shifting reflections from every angle.
- What do you hope viewers or users experience?
- Through my work, I hope to convey that tradition is not something fixed in the past, but a living language that continues today. Rooted in Korean identity, my practice draws from tradition to enrich the present and evolve alongside contemporary life.
- How has technology influenced your craft practice?
- Today, craft cannot rely on technique or material alone. What matters is the attitude and meaning behind each choice. Advances like AI highlight the value of human-centered work, making crafts rooted in intention and perspective more important than ever.
Sam Woong Lee is a master artisan: he began his career in 2008 and he started teaching in 2014
Where
Sam Woong Lee
