By Honorary Reporter Ayushi Kharayat from India
Photos = OK Kim's official Instagram page

Traditional lacquer artist OK Kim in 2022 received the award Bulgari x Vogue Aurora for craftsmanship. 

OK Kim, an artist and designer based in Seoul, specializes in contemporary art, homeware and furniture using ottchil, or natural lacquer made from tree sap.

Under the mentorship of professor Choi Byung-hoon and training from ottchil master Son Dae-hyun, Kim honed her skills for three years to preserve this endangered art form through her works.

Her collection has been shown at prestigious global events such as Salone del Mobile in Milan (Italy), Mint Design Gallery in London and Design Miami/Basel. She was one of 20 artists chosen for Elle Decor Korea's exhibition "Decor Decor: Living Room Arcade" and won the 2022 Bulgari x Vogue Aurora award for craftsmanship.

After discovering her works on social media, I was prompted to learn more about her innovative interpretations of this centuries-old technique. The following are excerpts from a written interview conducted from Jan. 20-27. 

What is ottchil and and its place in Korean culture. And why preserve this craft?

This traditional lacquer art has deep cultural roots and eco-friendliness. Its rich history and intricate beauty make it a valuable link to Korea's heritage and tradition.

By preserving ottchil, I uphold our artistic heritage to allow future generations to connect with their roots. This craft's ecological qualities are essential for these times through sustainable materials with minimal environmental impact. And it allows unparalleled artistic expressions and many possibilities for artists on the global art market.

Artist OK Kim works at her studio, with the process for a work taking up to three months.

What problems have you had in ottchil? What helps you persist despite difficulty?

Mastering ottchil posed challenges, notably skin reactions like rashes and itching due to its uncured state. Despite my initial struggle, perseverance led to skin immunity over time. My drive to overcome challenges and master ottchil fueled my dedication, using a sense of creative fulfillment to conquer initial difficulty.

Launched in 2016, Kim's Merge series has evolved every year with new collections showing her growing skills and curiosity. 

What aspects of Korean culture do you highlight in your creations?

Two colorful sanded shapes form the legs of a table when stacked under a glass top. This configuration resembles doltap, the traditional practice of stacking stones to make a wish. This act symbolizes not just individual wishes but also collective aspirations, embodying selflessness and shared empathy. My aim is for people to find the same inspiration in my art as they do in making doltap.

What prospects do you see while exploring new avenues in your artistic journey? 

My aim is to promote ottchil and my work globally. If given the chance, I will eagerly showcase ottchil and share my creations worldwide. And engagement in international artist residency programs will expand my artistic horizons and foster diverse interactions and enriching experiences.

Any concluding message to Korea.net readers? 
In today's fast-paced world, I hope that my art highlights the importance of investing time and effort in creation. I also want to inspire patience, commitment and courage in the pursuit of enduring creations and continuing to dream.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.