Hi, I’m Youngye, though my friends know me as Glory. I’m an artist specialising in soft materials, based in the UK and South Korea.

My pursuit of artistic expression and design led me to study art, with a particular focus on the craftsmanship of soft materials, during both my BA and MA in South Korea. The tactile nature of working with fibres has always held a special allure for me, prompting a move to the UK to expand my exploration of textural and tactile qualities. During my time studying Textiles at the Royal College of Art from 2016 to 2018, I honed my craft skills, deepened my understanding of tactile sensations and woven structures, and gained extensive knowledge of various materials and their combinations.

At the heart of my creative output lies a fascination with movement. Typically associated with altering a posture or position that has been stilled, the concept of movement in my work extends beyond physical motion and encompasses the process of venturing beyond the familiar and safe spaces that I have grown accustomed to.

Youngye Glory Cho Sketchbook images. I

It involves breaking free from the constraints of comfort zones and embracing new possibilities. It signifies a willingness to challenge existing habits, superstitions, and preconceived notions that may hinder personal growth and exploration in my work. I aim to highlight the transformative power of stepping outside our comfort zones by exploring movement in this context. It encourages us to question the rules and routines that govern our lives, inspiring us to embrace new perspectives and opportunities.

To visually express this theme, I use square shapes as the central design unit.

Youngye Glory Cho Sketchbook images. II

I delve into the interplay of various materials and unique textures, choreographing a rhythmic pattern through geometric images and accentuating the narrative through strategic colour contrasts. Further exploration involves the study of images transformed or generated through iteration and superposition, delving into the intricate relationship between structure and space.

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Specialising in weaving, I find immense joy in the intricate process that demands a significant investment of time and effort. This journey begins with meticulous planning of warp and weft, laying the groundwork for innovative structures and patterns. It extends to the rhythmic dance of beating on the loom, a harmonious act that brings the warp and weft into close communion with a resonant beat, ultimately giving birth to the exquisite creation of textiles.

Youngye Glory Cho ‘Movement’, 2018, worsted wool, hand woven

My artistic journey finds its rhythm in this intricate dance between warp and weft. Each thread, carefully planned and woven, contributes to the narrative of motion within my creations. My woven pieces’ unique textures and patterns mirror life’s constant motion’s complexity and diversity. I explore crafting dynamic and rhythmic patterns, gradient colours, blurred textures, and distinctive three-dimensional forms in my work. I focus on visual movement, meticulously arranging and repeating elements. The resultant images emerge from this intentional arrangement, allowing the textiles to burst to life with movement.

Youngye Glory Cho ‘Beyond Image series’, 2022, Monofilament, hand-woven

Movement is also inherent in shadows. Through the dynamic interplay of light and form, an intricate dance of shadow and substance, I aim to unveil a visual narrative that transcends the stillness of static images. By extending the reach of shadows, I aspire to breathe life into moments, providing a unique perspective on the fluidity and grace inherent in the ever-changing nature of motion. I extend the imagery of my newly crafted forms by twisting and overlapping the handwoven fabrics into novel shapes and unique patterns. These shapes and patterns transcend static existence; they are dynamic narratives, frozen in time yet pulsating with the energy of movement from a deliberate interplay of repetition and variation. With this approach I aim to captivate the viewer’s heart, ensuring a profound and lasting impression of movement.

Youngye Glory Cho ‘Möbius series’, 2016, plastic bag and vinyl yarn, hand woven

For me, movement serves as a reflection on the influence of rules and regulations in our lives and the significance of breaking free from them to unlock new experiences and personal growth. It is a visual representation of the process of stepping into uncharted territories and embracing the unknown, ultimately leading to self-discovery and a broader understanding of the world around us.

For a deeper dive into my journey to art and design, feel free to follow me on Instagram @glory.y.cho or explore my website at youngyecho.com. Your visit is greatly appreciated.

Youngye Glory Cho