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Stimulating Dialogue: Loewe Craft Prize Encourages Discussion on the Art of Korean Craftsmanship

Following their victory in the Loewe Foundation Craft Prize in 2022, craft artist Jeong Da-hye experienced a significant mental transformation – a surge in self-assurance that came with the title.

Sparked Discussion: Loewe Craft Prize Fosters Debate on Korean Artisanship
Sparked Discussion: Loewe Craft Prize Fosters Debate on Korean Artisanship

Stimulating Dialogue: Loewe Craft Prize Encourages Discussion on the Art of Korean Craftsmanship

In a recent Design Talk session at Design Miami In Situ Seoul, three distinguished artists and professors discussed the impact of the Loewe Foundation Craft Prize. The session, titled "The Loewe Foundation Craft Prize: Its Role and Objectives," was moderated by curator Cho Hye-young and included Jeong Da-hye, Jung Myung-taek, and Choi Kee-ryong.

Jeong Da-hye, a craft artist from South Korea, made history as the first Korean winner of the prestigious Loewe Craft Prize in 2022. Her winning work, titled "A Time of Sincerity," was a basket created from woven horsehair. Since her victory, Jeong Da-hye has dared to try many new things and has received numerous calls for international collaborations.

Jung Myung-taek, an artist and professor at Yeungnam University, was named as a finalist for the Loewe Foundation Craft Prize in 2022, while Choi Kee-ryong, an artist and professor at the University of Edinburgh, was named as a finalist in 2023.

Choi Kee-ryong described the Loewe Craft Prize as making craft 'sexy' and stated that it has shifted the perception about craft works and artists, breaking old stereotypes. He further mentioned that the prize created a platform for celebration and contributed to a healthy ecosystem.

Jung Myung-taek suggested that telling one's own story is already Korean and warned against forcing oneself to make something "Korean" without sincerity, as it won't last in the work. He responded that there is no need to cling to what is "Korean," as identity is something that constantly changes.

During the Q&A session, an audience member asked the panelists about making something truly Korean. Jeong Da-hye found that winning the award gave her a newfound confidence in her artistic path and encouraged others to stay true to their own stories and cultural roots.

It is worth noting that Kang Ok-kyun was the first Korean artist to win the Loewe Foundation Craft Prize before Jeong Da-hye. Choi Kee-ryong also highlighted the importance of breaking stereotypes and creating a more inclusive and diverse craft scene.

In conclusion, the Loewe Foundation Craft Prize has not only recognised the talent of Korean artists but also challenged traditional perceptions and stereotypes about craft works and artists. The panelists' discussions emphasised the importance of staying true to one's own story and cultural roots while pushing the boundaries of what is considered 'Korean' in the craft world.

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