Meet Jewan Goo | Research Based Photographer & Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jewan Goo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jewan, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I’m originally from Seoul, South Korea, a place with a complex and layered history, especially given the experiences of colonialism and rapid modernization. Growing up in South Korea, I was surrounded by a culture where historical memory was both pervasive and, at times, selectively told or censored. This environment shaped my understanding of how history can be manipulated by political agendas and led me to question the narratives presented to me.

From a young age, I felt the weight of these erased or altered stories, particularly those surrounding Korea’s Japanese colonial period. I realized there was an entire realm of unspoken histories that deserved recognition. This realization became a driving force behind my work as a research-based photographer, where I focus on reconstructing and reinterpreting marginalized or suppressed narratives. My background has instilled in me a deep commitment to visual storytelling that bridges art and historical inquiry, allowing me to honor and reclaim these stories through my work.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is deeply rooted in historical inquiry and visual storytelling, focusing on reconstructing erased or marginalized narratives, particularly those connected to Korea’s Japanese colonial period. As a research-based photographer, I aim to create works that uncover and visualize histories often hidden or downplayed by dominant narratives. Through dioramas and large-format photography, I recreate scenes that evoke these lost stories, inviting audiences to engage with the complexities and nuances of history.

What sets my work apart is this commitment to presenting truth-based alternative histories, which challenge viewers to look beyond what is commonly taught or accepted. I am proud of how my projects provide a space for reflection and encourage a deeper understanding of the often-silenced parts of history.

Reaching this point professionally hasn’t been easy. Working with sensitive historical materials and addressing subjects that are often politicized has been challenging, both technically and emotionally. Navigating a lack of documentation and censorship in historical records has taught me the importance of resilience, patience, and precision. I’ve been able to overcome these challenges through meticulous research and staying connected to my purpose: to give voice to the forgotten and amplify overlooked perspectives. I’m also grateful for the guidance and support of mentors and peers who have helped me refine my vision and remain grounded.

The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is the power of empathy and dedication when handling sensitive historical narratives. It’s essential to respect the subject matter and approach each story with a commitment to authenticity. I hope my work inspires others to question dominant narratives and approach history with an open, inquisitive mind. My art is ultimately about reclaiming and honoring voices from the past, advocating for a more inclusive understanding of our collective story.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d definitely take them to The Art Institute of Chicago. One of the highlights there is their stunning collection of dioramas, which offer a unique and immersive view into historical scenes and artistic perspectives. These dioramas are meticulously crafted, showcasing intricate details and allowing viewers to step back in time. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in art and history, and it’s one of the places that left a lasting impression on me during my time studying in Chicago. I’d love to share that experience with them.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are several individuals and works that have profoundly influenced my journey as a research-based photographer, and I’m grateful for the paths they have opened for me. One of the most impactful influences is Ariella Azoulay and her book Potential History: Unlearning Imperialism. Her work challenges readers to rethink history and the traditional narratives upheld by archives and institutions, encouraging us to ‘unlearn’ imperialistic perspectives. Her ideas resonated deeply with me, especially as I delve into historical reconstruction through photography. Azoulay’s work has taught me the importance of approaching history critically, questioning what is preserved and what is silenced. In many ways, she has shaped my approach to reconstructing hidden histories and honoring the voices that have been erased.

Another powerful influence is Saidiya Hartman’s essay Venus in Two Acts, where she explores the erasure of subaltern voices from the historical record and the struggle to give those voices space and agency. Hartman’s work has been pivotal in guiding me toward a more compassionate and ethical approach in my practice, inspiring me to reconstruct stories in a way that restores dignity and presence to marginalized figures.

Additionally, I owe a great deal to my mentors and peers in the arts community, who have provided invaluable guidance and support. Their feedback, encouragement, and shared passion for uncovering historical truths have been crucial in helping me refine my practice and stay grounded in my mission.

Each of these influences, whether through personal connection or intellectual inspiration, has played a role in my development as an artist. I am grateful to be part of a larger conversation on memory, history, and identity, thanks to their work and guidance.

Website: https://jewangoo.com

Instagram: https://8in.lab