The Grit and The Glamour: Wobbly Digital by Soorin Shin, Wish Branches

“I have always been fascinated by wish trees. I love the idea of wishing for something from nature, a representation of the ancient belief and connection to the natural world, which has been replaced by science, religion and logic in modern times. I have recreated my wish on a branch by chaining rings and knot shapes, which are inspired by the Korean traditional women's accessory called Norigae. Handed down from mothers to daughters through generations, Norigae is a token of motherhood, protecting its wearer from misfortune. I make contemporary sculptures and design work inspired by traditional Korean artefacts, presented in organic form through digital processes. I juxtapose contemporary and traditional, digital and organic. Within these exciting clashes, I wouldn’t dare to choose which elements are grit and which are glamour.” Soorin Shin

My Wish on a Branch: 3D-printed recycled plastic, bio-plastic (edition of 10). Height 67cm, width 38cm, depth 4cm.

Our Wishes on a Branch: 3D-printed recycled plastic, bio-plastic, stainless steel (edition of 10). Height 77cm, width 38cm, depth 4cm.

Wish Branches were first shown at Bard as part of the group exhibition The Grit and The Glamour in November 2023.