Seo Young-deok is a visionary sculptor who breathes new life into forgotten materials. His pieces are elaborately crafted from discarded bicycle chains, capturing the eye and evoking deep reflections on the human experience.
Young Deok pays close attention to detail, intertwining each link of the bicycle chain to form an incredibly realistic figure. But these sculptures are more than just physical representations. They serve as poignant symbols that reflect the complexities of modern society.
Born in South Korea in 1983, Young-deok is known as a pioneer in the world of contemporary sculpture. Seo, who graduated from the Department of Environmental Sculpture at Seoul National University in 2008, transcends traditional boundaries and explores the complex relationship between humanity and the environment. Currently living and working in South Korea, Seo's artistic journey is marked by a deep exploration of the human condition.
In Young Deok's artistic world, chains are more than just a symbol of their material. They embody the constraints and struggles inherent in modern life, the thorny bonds that bind us to societal expectations and material desires. Through his sculptures, Seo invites viewers to contemplate deep, often overlooked aspects of their own existence.
Each sculpture tells a story and conveys emotions ranging from loneliness to introspection. With eyes closed and defenseless, the figures create a melancholy atmosphere, inviting the viewer to delve deeper into the complexity of human emotions.
“Through my work I want to show a portrait of our time, where individual thoughts and lives are ignored,” he says in an artistic statement. “We close our eyes, ears, and mouths and suppress our emotions. We engage in this activity with the conviction that there is no place for us to express our emotions and feel safe.”
Seo's work goes beyond traditional sculpture. Through his exhibitions and online presence, he gives audiences a glimpse into his creative process and the inspiration behind his art. Whether through social media or in person, viewers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Seo's thought-provoking world.
In a society dominated by consumerism and superficiality, Yongduk's bicycle chain sculptures serve as powerful reminders of the profound beauty that emerges from forgotten materials. Through art, Seo challenges us to rethink our perceptions of beauty and value, reminding us that true artistry lies not in the materials themselves, but in the transformative power of an artist's vision.