Sculptor's works reborn into fine jewelry

The works of Korean sculptor Moonshin are to be shown in Seoul this month.

The abstract sculptures of Moonshin (1923-1995) reflect his constant search to uncover and express the essence of objects. Symmetry was the most distinctive feature of his works. They symbolized primitive vitality, cosmic order and harmony, as well as his insight into existence, conveyed into moderate lines and rich volume.

Moon first gained international acclaim with the wooden piece "Man of the Sun" in 1970 and became one of the few Korean sculptors to carve out a spot for himself in Europe before he returned from Paris to settle down in Korea in 1980.

Although it has been more than a decade since the sculptor passed away, his passion and originality still inspires, and a local jewelry boutique has come up with a full line of fine jewelry created with diamonds, ruby, sapphire and pearl.


"It has long been a dream to capture the beauty of Moonshin's sculpture with precious stones, and as his original works take the form of jewelry in themselves, we kept the changes of the original image and sophistication of his works to a minimum," said Jung Hye-ja of Moonshin Art Jewelry. "His artworks included every subject in the universe, from love, harmony and peace to nature," said Choi Seong-suk, widow of the artist and honorary director of his namesake museum in Masan. "And I believe this jewelry collection will bring new life into his sculpture."

More than 90 pieces will be showcased at Moonshin Art Jewelry Exhibition from July 4 to 15 at Gana Art Center in Pyeongchang-dong. A jewelry show is scheduled for the opening. The exhibition will be held at Moonshin Museum in Masan, South Gyeongsang Province, later this month. For more information, visit www.ganaart.com

By Hwang You-mee, The Korea Herald

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