Meet Hyoju Cheon | Artist

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

Hi Hyoju, we’d love to hear what makes you happy.
Lately, I have been contemplating the concept of happiness quite deeply. In my opinion, true happiness stems from our ability to find joy and appreciate the simple pleasures of everyday life and the world around us.

I often find myself pondering happiness because there are moments when I feel a sense of being lost. However, I have discovered that by embracing the beauty and intrigue found in the streets, the sky, flowers, or even something as seemingly insignificant as a bunch of trash, or the markings on the ground left by children, I am able to rekindle a profound connection with the present moment. This renewed awareness and appreciation for the opportunities each day holds bring me a genuine sense of happiness and fulfillment.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets me apart from others is my unique background. I was born and raised in Korea and worked as a full-time artist there before moving to the United States. This experience of living in two different cultures, combined with my involvement in the art industry, has shaped my perspective and given me a broader and more insightful outlook.

Since relocating to the United States, my artwork has undergone noticeable changes. While it’s difficult to pinpoint specific themes or elements that have transformed, I have noticed a shift in my approach and mindset towards starting a new piece or contemplating the artistic process. Initially, the transition wasn’t easy, but I had the opportunity to connect with exceptional fellow artists and mentors who have greatly contributed to my growth.

In my artistic practice, I specialize in performance and sculpture. I often cast spaces, objects, or bodies in motion, which allows me to respond to the unique conditions of each site. One of my primary interests lies in documenting bodies as they navigate through space, capturing their trajectories and archiving the material traces they leave behind. I thrive on interacting with the environment and collecting the residue it produces, as it adds a distinct dimension to my work.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend visits me, I would definitely start the day with a refreshing jog along the scenic Hudson River, starting from 42nd Street and heading towards the financial district. Afterward, we can enjoy a delightful brunch in that area.

Once we’re back and refreshed, I would suggest exploring some of the captivating galleries in the vibrant Lower East Side. To satisfy our taste buds, we can’t miss the renowned Golden Unicorn dumpling spot in Chinatown. After indulging in some delicious dumplings, we can venture to Soho for a shopping spree and explore the trendy boutiques. While in Soho, we can also make a stop at the New Museum and discover the latest in contemporary art. Right around the corner from the museum, there is a charming independent bookstore and café called Bungee Space, where we can relax and spend some quality time.

To cap off our day, we can immerse ourselves in the quintessential New York experience by attending a jazz concert at the iconic Blue Note Jazz Club. It’s a classic hotspot known for its exceptional performances and vibrant atmosphere.

Overall, it would be a memorable day filled with fitness, culture, culinary delights, and the soulful melodies of jazz.
I wish it really happen soon or later.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am incredibly enthusiastic about this opportunity, and I am filled with gratitude for the support I have received from various sources, including my peers, mentors, books, and music.

I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to my mentor, Mark Dion. He has been a constant presence in my life, providing unwavering support and guidance whenever I needed it. His mentorship has played a pivotal role in shaping my journey thus far, and I am truly grateful for his contributions.

Website: https://hyojucheon.com/

Instagram: @hyo_ju_cheon

Image Credits
video document @Ryan Muchen Wang