Lost Dokkaebis
Jeffery Sun Young Park, a queer Corean artist based in Los Angeles, is quickly making a name for himself in the ceramics world with his stunning handbuilt, stoneware Dokkaebis.
These whimsical creations are inspired by the mischievous nature spirits from Corean folklore, Dokkaebis, which take on various forms and possess magical powers. For Park, they represent an energetic mirror that reflect the spirit and intentions of humans and serve as a tribute to radical queer Coreans (the original spelling before colonization) who challenged the status quo, defying societal norms and fighting for their rightful place in the world.
His recent first solo exhibition, Lost Dokkaebis at Stroll Garden, showcased these playful creatures, which serve as an energetic mirror reflecting the spirit and intentions of humans. Park’s work celebrates untold stories, exploring the mass movement and displacement of Coreans to Southern California while shedding light on history lost to war, oppression, and the erasure of BlPOC, Queer, Trans, and Gender Non-Conforming people.
As an emerging artist to watch in 2023, Park’s work speaks to a deep sense of cultural identity and the power of art to reclaim history and celebrate the importance of marginalized communities. With his cultural pride and passion for storytelling, Park’s ceramics are sure to continue captivating audiences and earn him well-deserved recognition in the ceramics world.
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