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November 09, 2004
John Kim article in The Dallas Voice
ART - Deep-seeded creations
By Robert Ross
Contributing Writer
For creative stimulus, sculptor John Kim draws from the source of life itself — the seed and the pod.
“I’m fascinated by seedpods because they represent potential even in their static forms,” Kim explains. “The outside of the pod is serene, but the seed inside is explosive, full of unexpressed intent.”
Although far larger than pods, most of the exquisitely shaped pieces formed in hard clay measure only 12 or so inches. The textures of the surfaces vary, some rubbed with wax to a high glaze, some brightly painted and others treated with graphite. Kim says that his objective is “to catch something in motion.”
When viewed together, Kim says his pod reproductions “create stories.” He compares himself to an editor who constructs a “biological narrative.”
His fascination with pods started in 1997 when he created a small sculpture he called “Orifice,” which revealed to him the miracle of the outer pod and the seed within. Inspired by this discovery, he set out to express the mystery of growth in a series of sculptures.
Seven years later, Kim is getting ready to display the fruits of his labor at his first solo exhibition. He admits that it takes a certain amount of ego to place his work on public display and to expect validation from those who see it.
In 1972 at age 2, Kim moved with his family from South Korea to Los Angeles, where he grew up in a religious and traditional Korean home. Although long interested in art, he first studied theology and planned to serve as a missionary.
“Even though I didn’t go into the ministry, I don’t consider a career in art that much different,” Kim says. “Both fields are pursuits of a certain passion.”
After attending Oregon College of Art and Craft in Portland, he moved across the country to complete a bachelor’s degree in fine arts at Rhode Island School of Design. He originally came to Dallas just for a visit. Describing himself as a “coastal person,” he didn’t plan to stay long. But two years later, Kim now feels at home in the inland city.
He commutes to Fort Worth where he works with a manufacturer of home accessories. In addition to designing furniture and decorative items, Kim specializes in architectural lighting.
When he worked with a Dallas design firm, Kim made several trips to plants in China where the company’s items were manufactured. He was shocked at the factory’s unhealthful conditions
“That’s the price being paid for U.S. consumption. But what can be done?” he asks.
On a more cheerful note, Kim talks about his interest in stage design, which he has applied to various productions. He compares designing sets and costumes to writing poetry.
“It’s all about creating an experience that’s beautiful for the moment but won’t last,” he says.
Pods and seeds don’t last either, but Kim captures their fleeting beauty when he molds them into clay and turns them into a form of poetry.
“New Sculpture” by John Kim. IR Gallery, 830 Exposition, Suite 103. Reception Nov. 19 from 7-9 p.m. Exhibit runs through Dec. 15. 469-951-7323.
Posted by Sarah Jane at November 9, 2004 03:37 PM