Sangwoo Yoo creates art with the intention of reawakening the dulled senses of contemporary subjects. While working as an archaeologist, he was drawn to objects imbued with static temporal weight. However, the social reality around him seemed simultaneously oversaturated and depleted, marked by rapid and chaotic changes. Yoo believes that this aggressive society can lead people to lose their cool-headedness and be numbed, which is why they aim to reconnect their lost senses through their art. For instance, in ‘Portrait of Loss’, Sangwoo transformed a discarded Christmas tree into dust with its natural pine scent, creating an olfactory experience that demonstrates the feeling of loss.

In terms of material use, Yoo explores how material can have an ecological cycle, focusing on embracing ephemerality and leaving behind a minimal environmental footprint. Moving forward, he aims to create art that makes a practical contribution to society and the environment and sparks a reaction. Sangwoo views his art as a tool to inspire change and help people regain their senses and connect with their environment.

Sangwoo Yoo, (born in Seoul, 1994) is an interdisciplinary artist specializing in sculpture and installation. His practice is driven by the intention to reawaken modern senses, creates art that engages multiple senses, challenges societal numbness, and aims to make a practical contribution to society and the environment through material ecological cycles.