About

Dahye Jeong, the 2022 Loewe Foundation Craft Prize winner, demonstrates her technique of working with horsehair, showcasing how she transforms flat fibres into intricate three-dimensional forms.

Dahye’s inspiration comes from Korean men’s headwear, worn between 1392 and the end of the 19th century, which often signified the wearer’s social status. After designing her shapes, Dahye creates wooden molds and weaves the horsehair using a single needle. Much of her work revolves around sourcing the best horsehair, some of which comes from her native Jeju Island, Korea’s horse-breeding region, as well as from various parts of the world.

The weaving techniques Dahye employs are rooted in the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910), though she has recently developed her own unique weaves based on historical facts. Despite the simplicity of her technique, using only one needle, the forms she creates are intricate and immaculate. Her approach emphasizes the state of mind and the investment of time, achieved through repetitive labor. Hours of painstaking practice have enabled her to reach the highest levels of mastery. There is no other artist quite like Dahye, who is diligent, disciplined, and always eager to explore new possibilities.

Dahye Jeong is currently represented by Soluna Craft, one of Korea’s leading art companies. Since 2023, Soluna Craft has been featured in London Craft Week, fostering a strong collaborative relationship with the Korean Pavilion. Once again, Soluna Craft presents the best of Korean Fine Craft at Cromwell Place, Lady Hazel Gallery.