A Study on Metalwork design based on the Theory of Yin-Yang and Five Elements

This study is the report of my work’s background of creation, philosophy, logic, and so on. My pieces come from single sheets of metal. I am constantly amazed when a flat sheet of metal can miraculously be transformed into a three-dimensional form by a small touch of movement. I realize that a sheet of metal looking very two-dimensional, flat, rigid, strong, and angular has an opposite aspect at the same time; it can be made to look three-dimensional, flexible, soft, and natural. My work transforms a two-dimensional sheet of metal into a three-dimensional form. Through the process of cutting, bending, and hammering a single sheet of metal without addition or reduction, I construct new forms and spaces. This transformation is inspired by oriental philosophy, yin-yang and the five elements; wood, fire, earth, metal, water. I think that a single sheet of metal is yin-yang and the process of transforming is affected by the character of the five elements. In oriental philosophy, these five elements explain changing aspects of the universe, seasons, people and so on. My hollow silver forms embody my understanding of five elements. Every form shifts through undergoing the processes of rising, expanding, collecting, and floating energy. My work represents my philosophy of life. I transform the shapes from cold and inert sheets of metal to vigorous and spiritual forms. The addition of colour brings more vitality to the silver.