Regular readers and friends know that Joungmee has been one of my favourite jewellers for many years now, and I did an Iybsa class with her a few years ago and she’s just lovely. So seeing her ‘Longevity‘ exhibition at e.g.etal was such a pleasure and it is an incredibly beautiful collection.
image courtesy of, and with thanks to, the gallery
Exhibition media: ““In Korean folklore there are ten symbols that represent man’s desire for long-life and happiness in the present world: the ten symbols of longevity.” The sun, mountains, clouds, rock, water, cranes, tortoises, deer, pine tree, and immortals’ fungus appear in folk paintings as decorative motifs. ‘Longevity’ is an extension of Joungmee’s exploration and appropriation of Korean folklore.”
I have mentioned that I’m very much liking the manner in which e.g.etal is setting up their exhibitions this year… and this is no exception. The pieces all together are so contemplative and peaceful. I hope to soon have an installation image to share with you…
Iybsa has the potential to be rather flat, however Joungmee has successfully introduced some wonderful three-dimensional elements into her work, bringing it to life. These pieces also have more gold than I’ve seen in her work before … and it is just gorgeous. Especially so is the neckpiece below, which looks to have a sheet gold ‘laminated’ over silver, and the silver slightly shimmers through with the chiseling marks … just incredible.
image courtesy of, and with thanks to, the gallery
My friend and I spent a long time looking at each piece, marvelling at the construction … the clasps are handmade, which always makes me happy!
I’ve also noticed the more geometric and abstract shapes in this work compared to her previous production pieces in e.g.etal … I like the voluminous aspects of the brooches, like those in the first image above. And I especially am attracted to the whiteness of the silver components.
I found some more images on ArtWhatsOn – my favourite is below:
click on image for original source
E.g.etal is also showing another exhibition at the same time, which I’ll write about shortly.
JoungMee Do ‘Longevity‘ is at e.g.etal until 2nd July 2011.
Melbourne Jeweller 