In the delicate line of wave, my artwork unfolds a narrative that marries resilience with grace, drawing from the harmonious interplay of shapes and lines that define traditional Korean roofs—a symbol of cultural perseverance in both urban and rural settings. This technique of layering and interlocking paper transcends mere artistic endeavor, embodying a profound metaphor that unveils the hidden strength within vulnerability. By meticulously folding layers upon layers, each piece of paper surpasses its fragile nature to embrace a collective robustness, echoing the age-old wisdom that true strength is born through unity and adaptation. Thus, my work serves not only as an artistic expression but as a contemplation on the paradoxical nature of strength, discovered in the most delicate of materials, inviting viewers to reconceive the essence of resilience.

The choice of the ebb and tide theme serves as a poignant metaphor for the perpetual conflict within my mind, mirroring the rhythmic ebb and flow of the sea. As the tide breathes life into the ocean, I undertook this endeavor in the aspiration of progressing amidst constant change. Utilizing a palette of dark blue as the foundation, gradually transitioning to lighter shades of blue and white, I sought to capture the essence of this rhythmic motion, symbolizing the cyclical nature of existence. Additionally, through the meticulous folding and crafting of numerous papers, I aimed to depict the intricate fragments of life, weaving them into tangible works of art that embody the transient beauty and complexity of human experience.

Amidst the swirling chaos of the pandemic, the act of folding nearly 10,000 sheets of paper served as a sanctuary for my tumultuous spirit, momentarily suspending the relentless tide of transformation that engulfed the world. This meditative ritual of creasing and bending paper transcended mere physical activity, evolving into a profound practice of solace and introspection. Each fold became a quiet rebellion against the storm of external realities, offering a refuge where the noise of the world was silenced by the whisper of paper. In this sacred space, crafted by the simplicity of repetitive motion, I found a profound sense of serenity, a respite that anchored me amidst the sea of uncertainty and concern. This journey through paper not only allowed me to step away from the pervasive upheaval but also illuminated a path to inner peace, underscoring the power of deliberate, mindful actions to transform turmoil into tranquility.

The essence of the Wave, with its perennial ebb and flow, intertwines my present with echoes of my past, blurring the lines between moments, and in this confluence, I find myself contemplating the boundless vitality of nature and pondering the profound significance of my own existence. This relentless introspection is inspired by the sea's dual nature—its tempestuous fury and its tranquil grace—that serves as a mirror to the human soul's complex depths. To capture the indomitable spirit of the sea and its enigmatic tranquility, my work employs an array of paints, each stroke an attempt to delineate the sea's multifaceted character. Through this artistic endeavor, I aspire to not only depict the physical attributes of the sea but to evoke the ineffable mystery it embodies, inviting viewers into a meditative dialogue with the natural world and their place within it, highlighting the sea's role as a timeless muse, reflecting the perennial quest for meaning and the pursuit of understanding our ephemeral existence against the backdrop of nature's immortal canvas.

In my art, I harmoniously intertwine the philosophies of Buddhism and Confucianism, embracing the profound and serene beauty of nature. My practice of paper folding is not merely a physical act but a meditative journey, symbolizing the rhythmic flow of life and inner peace. Each fold captures the essence of the moon's enigmatic allure, a celestial body revered in diverse cultures for its mystic charm and ever-changing presence. This artistic process transcends mere creation; it becomes a deeply personal exploration of my identity, a reflection of my soul's connection to the natural world and its timeless rhythms. 

In my artistic exploration, I delve into the intricate tapestry of human connection, meticulously crafting thousands of delicate paper pieces into a cohesive, unified form. This artwork transcends mere physicality; it becomes a metaphor for the intricate bonds that weave the human experience together. Through the medium of paper, known for its gentle softness and pliability, I convey the fluidity and resilience of these connections. The incorporation of vivid, lively colors to depict the sun serves as more than an aesthetic choice; it's a profound symbol of the sun's unwavering presence in our lives, mirroring the enduring and vital nature of human relationships. This piece is not just an artistic expression, but a reflection on the essential, life-sustaining elements of nature and human interconnectedness. 

The vast expanse of the open sea exudes an inherent sense of spaciousness and tranquility, evoking a feeling of expansiveness within the mind. To me, the boundless blue signifies not only a resolute determination but also a courageous spirit of embracing challenges and navigating through life with fluidity. During my youth, frequent visits to the sea became a ritual, where amidst the endless horizon, I found solace in dreaming about myriad thoughts and potential futures. Those cherished memories and contemplative moments remain etched deeply within my heart, serving as enduring reminders of the profound connection between the boundless sea and the boundless possibilities of life.

This piece is a contemporary homage to the serene and mystical landscapes found in Oriental paintings, where the subtle interplay of light and shadow, and the ethereal qualities of nature, are captured with a reverence that transcends time. In an effort to bridge the ancient with the modern, various spray paint techniques were meticulously employed, endeavoring to replicate the unique texture and solemn beauty of limestone—a material that itself is a testament to the enduring strength and resilience of the natural world. This artistic pursuit was not merely about recreating a physical texture but was an attempt to evoke the profound spiritual essence that limestone landscapes hold within the realm of Oriental artistry. Through this synthesis of traditional inspiration and contemporary methods, the work becomes a dialogue between past and present, inviting the viewer to experience the depth of natural beauty and the timeless quest for harmony and balance, echoing the philosophical depths of its Oriental roots.

In South Korea, the tradition of erecting stone pagodas at the village's entrance stands as a profound symbol of protection and spiritual grounding, rooted deeply in shamanistic practices. These structures, more than mere architectural feats, embody the collective hopes and prayers of a community seeking sanctuary from calamities, drawing upon the mountain's energy to anchor the village's presence firmly within the landscape. It is believed that in times where the constructs of civilization were yet to mature, the creation of a stone pagoda represented a communal aspiration for peace, a collective warding off of malevolent forces through a tangible manifestation of hope. In a similar vein, my journey of meticulously folding paper, layer upon layer, to forge a singular form resonates with the essence of building a stone pagoda—a ritual of patience and devotion. Each fold, akin to the stones carefully assembled with fervent hearts, becomes a metaphor for unity and shared intent. Through this process, I not only craft a piece of art but also weave a narrative of harmony, echoing the ancient wisdom encapsulated in the venerable tradition of stone pagodas, where every stone laid is a prayer for peace and every layer a testament to the enduring strength of community.

In the act of folding countless sheets of paper, a meditative process unfolds where the complex swirl of thoughts in my mind takes shape, giving birth to a new structure. At a moment when I could no longer conceive new ideas for my thesis show, I sought solace at the nearest beach to shake off my frustration. It was there, gazing at the Bay Bridge from a distance on the beach, that an idea struck me—the round curves installed on the bridge seemed to connect to the sky, evoking the illusion of a dragon ascending to the heavens. Thus, this work is not merely an artistic attempt but a physical manifestation of intuition born from a serendipitous moment by the sea. It proves that sometimes, immersing ourselves in the natural wonders of the world during our quest for meaning and expression can turn fleeting moments of inspiration into enduring works of art, returning us to our creative essence.