Artist Profile Jeehee Yoo

Yoo’s inquisitive, tactile fibers bridge tangible space and emptiness.

Artist Statement

In my artistic exploration, I intertwine traditional Korean paper with recycled materials to delve into the interplay of time, space, absence, and presence. The act of repurposing discarded remnants into new forms serves as a profound metaphor for the passage of time itself, and the void that exists within and around us. Through techniques such as crafting paper pulp and clay, and sewing or weaving these materials, I endeavor to redefine our perception of past, present, and future, bridging the gap between tangible reality and intangible emptiness.

Reflecting on the concept of negative space found in East Asian art, I contemplate emptiness and absence, conveying ambiguity, evoking feelings of dreamlike melancholy, or grasping at the edges of vaguely remembered sensations. As I immerse myself in the intricate dynamics between absence and presence, I find inspiration in the overlooked entities that hold profound significance yet evade conscious attention. Everyday objects and spaces become symbols of personal identity, familial heritage, and cultural essence. These elements possess a profound significance that becomes palpable only in their absence.

Rather than seeking to define what is inherently Korean in a traditional sense, I find myself drawn to the subtle nuances and everyday experiences that shape cultural identity. Informed by Korean traditions and culinary rituals, I explore themes of resilience, communal support, and cultural values. The shapes and forms of containers and dishes used in food presentation influence my artistic expression, symbolizing security, belonging, and cultural identity.

Through my ongoing artistic endeavor, I strive to communicate the significance of these seemingly mundane facets of our lives. My work invites viewers on a contemplative journey to reflect not only on the interplay of time and space but also on the elusive nature of existence itself, as captured through ordinary objects and enveloping spaces.

Artist Biography

Jeehee Yoo (b. Seoul, Korea) is a multidisciplinary artist in New York. She holds an MFA in Mount Royal School of Art from the Maryland Institute College of Art, a Post-Baccalaureate in Painting and Drawing from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, a BFA in Korean Painting, and a double major in History of Art from Ewha Womans University in Seoul. Her diverse educational background, including attending Columbia Summer School, has contributed to her multidimensional approach to art, seamlessly merging Korean traditional elements with contemporary perspectives. Her work has been exhibited at various places, most recently in the Nars Foundation Residency Program. Her open studio has been reviewed by Isa Farfan in Hyperallergic and she has been interviewed in the New Visionary Magazine.