Woo Jin Joo Conjures Mythic Tales from Uncanny Sculptures of Fiber and Found Objects

Artist Woo Jin Joo finds inspiration in the everyday objects left behind in London, transforming them into uncanny sculptures that blur the lines between human and animal. Seized by chance, these discarded items become vessels of meaning and imagination for the Seoul-born artist. Embellished with clay, shiny thread, and other discarded materials, her creations manifest in various forms, from human figures draped in white and beige fringe to surreal amalgamations of body parts and unusual shapes.

Joo's practice is rooted in her Korean-Chinese heritage and her experiences as a cultural transplant living in London. Her work dives into the strange and surreal, tapping into mythology and folklore to explore alternative paths of knowledge and wisdom. She believes that even mundane interactions can hold potential for transformation, and her background between cultures informs an adaptable and fluid artistic vision.

The scale of her sculptures is an integral aspect of her work, as larger pieces command a visual presence that smaller wall-hung pieces cannot. By inviting viewers to engage with the sculptures at different angles, Joo encourages them to contemplate their own bodies in relation to the works. Her exhibition "Bodily Inbetweenness" will be on view at Ruup & Form in London until November 13, 2026, and Joo will also showcase her work at the Harley Foundation in Nottinghamshire early next year. Keep up to date on her practice through her Instagram feed.