Meet Ryujeong (Yujeong) Han | Contemporary Jewelry Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ryujeong (Yujeong) Han and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ryujeong (Yujeong), how does your business help the community?
Hello, I’m Ryujeong Han(Yujeong), a contemporary jewelry artist.

As an artist, I long for freedom from the pressures of conformity that the world imposes. I’m deeply committed to pursuing social justice, refusing to silence my voice. Growing up in Korea, the conservative culture often forced me to hide my true self. But jewelry became my outlet, a powerful medium for expressing everything I hold within. My work transcends personal experience; it raises social questions and invites deeper reflection on broader cultural issues. Through my pieces, I express an unwavering commitment to freedom and equality, challenging the social constraints placed on individuality. I hope my work offers comfort and courage to those who experience discrimination, empowering them to find their voice within society.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a contemporary jewelry artist, I aspire to transcend the traditional view of jewelry as mere adornment. I want my work to resonate with people and society, to become a medium for conveying meaningful messages. This desire fuels my continuous experimentation with the very concept of jewelry. I challenge conventional notions – my pieces may be deliberately unwearable, or I might incorporate diverse media like video into my artistic practice. This exploration seeks to blur the boundaries of traditional jewelry and generate new and powerful forms of expression.

Furthermore, I’m deeply committed to elevating the status of jewelry within the broader art world. While often overlooked or marginalized, contemporary jewelry offers a unique artistic experience. It’s born from the dynamic interaction between artist and wearer, making it a potent vehicle for individual expression as well as social and political commentary. I actively embrace the potential of contemporary jewelry to amplify my voice and engage with the complexities of our society.

The core theme underpinning my work is a deep-seated skepticism towards the false norms constructed by society. Growing up, I felt compelled to conceal my true self, to deceive myself, in order to conform to the expectations of others. Through contemporary jewelry, I’ve found a way to overcome those constraints and express my authentic identity. My hope is that my work will inspire others to question the assumptions they hold, to question societal pressures, and to embrace the courage to reveal their own true selves.

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.
California has become like a second home to me. The stunning beaches, the delicious food, and the warmth of good friends make it a place I always want to share. If a close friend visited, I’d start by taking them on a long walk along Santa Monica beach. The ocean breeze and calming waves always help me unwind. Afterward, we’d head to my favorite little cafe tucked away under the Hollywood sign. Their cozy atmosphere, tasty brunch, and amazing coffee never disappoint.

Since I’m a big matcha lover, I’d have to introduce them to the best matcha spot(Tea Master Matcha Cafe) I know. It’s a hidden gem! We could follow that up with a delicious sushi dinner(Sushi Gen) nearby and wander through the charming streets lined with unique shops.

For a truly unforgettable experience, I’d end our day at Griffith Observatory. The views of the city lights and the starry sky are breathtaking. California’s natural beauty is the perfect way to relax and reconnect. I love sharing these special places with the people I care about.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to begin by expressing deep gratitude towards my younger brother, who always encourages me to live boldly, and my parents, whose unwavering support fuels my dreams. Their steadfast presence has broadened my perspective, nurtured my inclusivity, and given me the strength to face any challenge.

Additionally, I’m indebted to the faculty and my peers in the Rhode Island School of Design’s Jewelry & Metalsmithing program, who played a crucial role in my development as a contemporary jewelry artist. RISD was a unique space where I could proudly embrace my true self. The experiences and education I received there gave me the courage to pursue the artistic path I’d always envisioned but hesitated to take. The guidance and support of many, especially professors Tracy Steepy, Timothy Veske-McMahon, and Seth Papac, empowered me to turn my ideas into the work I create today.

My work will continue to evolve, and I hope it inspires others, helps them feel a sense of safety and belonging, and encourages them to stand tall and confident within society.

Website: www.ryujewelry.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryujewelry

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/ryujewelry

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ryujewelry

Image Credits
Photography : Rene Cha Model : Soeun Bae, Sigrid Yu