Choi Sung-jae
Square Vase, 2005Choi describes his work as a “space of speculation,” blending what he considers the spirituality of traditional Korean art with a clearly modern sensibility. He works in the tradition of buncheong—literally “powder green”—a type of ware noted for its dark chocolate-colored earthenware. Applying a white slip to the dried surface of the vessel, Choi uses twigs, bamboo shoots, millet stalks and even his fingers to create images of nature, such as ducks swimming among reeds, as seen on this vessel. This approach references the spontaneity and amateurish quality of East Asian literati painting.
Buncheong became increasingly popular in the 15th century, and gradually replaced celadon during the Joseon dynasty (1392-1910). While buncheong largely disappeared during the later Joseon dynasty, it remained highly sought after in Japan where tea master celebrated its simple honesty and deliberate crudeness. Choi represents new efforts to revive buncheong among contemporary Korean potters.