Refractions is a reflection on the coexistence of instability and stability Yuna Kim experienced while studying abroad as a stranger in an unfamiliar environment. It explores how such tension led her to reflect on her identity and inner world.
The work is composed of three layers of light, each symbolising a facet of her perception and self-awareness.
The front glass layer extends my ongoing exploration of Ennui, capturing the paradox of emotional emptiness within routine and the quiet anxiety found in stability. Living abroad amplified these conflicting feelings—alienation, cultural distance, and a constant sense of unfamiliarity shook Yuna Kims sense of self. In response, she became more cautious and defensive, unconsciously seeking to adapt and protect herself. This tension forced her to re-examine her internal anchors—her values, emotions, and the quiet forces that keeps her centred.
Behind the glass lies a layer of hanji, traditional Korean paper, representing her cultural identity and emotional roots. For Yuna Kim, hanji is not merely a material, but a carrier of memories, environments, and sensibilities from her upbringing. Though subtle, it reveals itself through the light—symbolising how identity, even when hidden, inevitably seeps through. It is the persistent trace of “home” that shapes her presence, even in foreign settings.
At the core, the light bulb represents an inner perception—light moving from within. As it travels through the glass and hanji, it projects onto a final metal surface. This process is both symbolic and literal: light refracting and reflecting, forming a new image. It suggests how fragmented emotions and memories come together to form a clearer understanding of self.
Ultimately, Refractions is more than an object. It is a visual meditation on how the self responds, reshapes, and re-emerges when displaced. The interplay of material and light becomes a metaphor for identity in flux—constantly reflecting, shifting, and rediscovering its essence.
This lamp is wired for use in the UK with a voltage of 220–240V. It comes with a Type G plug, which is standard in the UK.
A plug adapter may be required depending on the country of use.
| Dimensions LxWxH | 14x15x40cm (6x6x16'') |
|---|---|
| Piece Weight (kg) | 1.0 |
| Production Year | 2025 |
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| Design Class | Open Editions |
