“ban : ban” is the artist's nickname.
It carries two distinct meanings in the Korean language. Firstly, it means something or someone being beautiful and luminous. Secondly, it translates to half and half. These dual meanings reflect the essence of “ban : ban”’s work, a harmonious and beautiful blend of the sculptural and the functional.
established 2023
STORY
ban:ban is a multidisciplinary artist whose work is shaped by a diverse education that combines many different cultures and artistic ideas. Born and raised in S. Korea, ban:ban's journey included studying at Le Rosey in Switzerland, earning a BFA from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and completing an MDes. at Hongik University Graduate School in Seoul. She was inspired by decorative sculptures in Europe, explored industrial and functional design in the United States, and has natural genes of craftsmanship rooted in traditional Korean arts. This multifaceted foundation informs her unique creative practice, which seamlessly integrates art, function, and cultural heritage. In 2024, ban:ban was awarded the prestigious ITSLIQUID International Contest in Italy and has since actively exhibited in numerous domestic and international art fairs and exhibitions. Specializing in art lighting, ban:ban creates pieces that blend natural crystal stones with light, transforming them into functional artworks. These luminous creations serve not only as sources of illumination but also as meditative art that encourages mental wellness and invites positive energy. Through the interplay of natural materials and radiant light, ban:ban seeks to offer viewers a moment of peace and inspiration in their everyday lives.
ARTWORK
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MATERIAL
“木火土金水” are the five elements of nature in Asian culture, which are "wood, fire, earth, metal, water.” I try to reinterpret the 5 elements in a new way with new substances. “土”(earth) is the base of my sculpture made with mineral clay. I mix oyster shell fragments, which represent “水” (water), with mineral clay to give an unexpected texture on the surface. I use preserved flowers as “木” (wood) and natural crystal stones as “金” (metal) to decorate. For “火”(fire), color-changing smart lighting is used to create a surreal atmosphere.
EXHIBITION