Yun Hwan Kim is a South Korean artist whose sculptural furniture has drawn growing attention in the collectible design world. With his distinctive line of works called the “Unintended Series,” which includes cabinets, tables, screens, mirrors, and lighting, Kim has captivated audiences with his remarkable artistry and flowing design language.
Trained as a woodworker in school, Kim developed an intimate, dedicated approach to his art, embracing the tactile nature of the craft with a reverence for his materials. His journey as an artist began with a series of small hand-carved wood objects such as trays, vessels, and bowls, which possessed what he refers to as “unintended shapes.” Intrigued by these forms, Kim began exploring their potential by connecting them, reversing their orientation to reveal undulating dips and arcs, and modifying their shapes. Through this process, the works took on a life of their own, unfolding and evolving into large abstract pieces that eventually grew into his signature sculptural furniture.
Irregular, improvisational and organic, Kim’s forms resemble the silhouette of spilled water, embodying a sense of fluidity and topography. Large contoured shapes define his pieces, interconnecting like tributaries or branch-like forms, creating an intricate and visually captivating composition. The fusion of these elements results in furniture that blurs the boundaries between function and art, challenging conventional notions of design.
In his latest works, Kim has ventured beyond wood and begun incorporating cast aluminum and bronze. By reinterpreting the hand-carved wood forms in these lustrous materials, he has firmly established his presence in the contemporary realm as a distinctive voice and artisan. This exploration of new mediums and materials adds a layer of sophistication and experimentation to his art, pushing the boundaries of his creative expression.
Yun Hwan Kim’s journey as an artist showcases the power of intuition and experimentation. His force as a designer lies in transforming unintended shapes into sculptural furniture, showcasing a unique artistic sensitivity and craftsmanship. Throughout the “Unintended Series,” Kim challenges preconceived design notions, leaving an enduring impression on the world of collectible design.
As Kim works on a commission basis, custom designs may be requested.
