Dae-Yong Byun
Artmong
Resin artist
Gimhae-si, South Korea
Resin, bears and quiet moments
- Dae-Yong's resin sculptures are distinguished by their smooth finishes
- His works transform familiar objects into stories of human experiences
- Behind his work lies a patient process where imagination takes shape
Dae-Yong Byun creates resin works that depict polar bears, drawing on his own life and shared human experiences. While his early pieces featured pictogram-like human figures, today they are characterised by a fairy-tale quality that combines playfulness with quiet humanity. Trained in ceramics and sculpture, he currently teaches craft at a university. "When I was little, I wanted to become a naturalist painter like Jean-François Millet. I always carried a longing for painting," he says. "That desire eventually found its expression through relief sculpture." In recent years, he has increased his focus on relief works with painterly elements, exploring space more freely while reconnecting with his childhood dream. Through his work, Dae-Yong hopes people will rediscover a sense of innocence.
INTERVIEW
The smooth finish comes from hours of labour. I sand the surface of my objects repeatedly, starting with coarse sandpaper and gradually moving to finer grades before painting them. After that, I fill even the smallest holes several times and apply a final coating to achieve the desired texture.
Although I used to experiment with abstract forms, I found greater joy in creating recognisable shapes over time. I enjoy making works that invite people to wonder how the textures feel to the touch, using form itself to tell a story. Animals and fruit are the most natural subjects for this approach.
I enjoy giving shape to the forms and ideas I envision. It transforms the laborious process into a source of joy. To continue enjoying my work, I maintain my physical stamina through a disciplined and balanced lifestyle.
How people experience or collect my work is entirely up to them. Many tell me that my work leaves them with a sense of warmth, which I find very meaningful. My hope is that it offers a moment to pause and consider what truly matters in life.
Dae-Yong Byun
Artmong
Resin artist
Gimhae-si, South Korea
ADDRESS
Address upon request, Gimhae-si, South Korea
AVAILABILITY
By appointment only
LANGUAGES
Korean
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