There is a certain interesting buzz surrounding the innovative creations of the Seattle-based Korean designer Jay Sae Jung Oh. Oh's journey into the world of design started amidst a rising concern, as she pursued her MFA at the Cranbrook Academy of Art in the United States. It was there, surrounded by piles of prototypes and dormitory debris, that Oh found her inspiration - a design philosophy to develop and pursue. 

Her bespoke pieces are born out of the chaotic clutter she encountered, encapsulating her ethos: that with enough effort and imagination, even trash can be redeemed into something not just or only useful, but absolutely stunning. By enveloping discovered objects in either jute cord or later on raw leather in natural colour, Oh crafts sculptural design pieces reminiscent of artefacts from an era where leather veiled our refuse, transforming it into monuments to now. Oh remarks “Unlike fine art, design comes with more responsibility to provide better solutions. Most of my design inspirations are derived from the awareness of social issues like sustainability and abundant waste. Our disposable culture makes me interested in objects that people waste and treat as invaluable”. Oh's work not only critiques consumerism but also delves into the depths of memory and meaning. As her compositions integrate personal souvenirs and cherished objects, they transform into portraits of the past, each whispering tales of human existence.

The Korean artist/designer's process involves piecing together found detritus like a puzzle, then encasing them in durable leather, fashioning intricate spirals of earthy tones and forms that speak volumes about her mastery and creativity. Oh sources these discarded materials from thrift shops, while friends and family contribute found objects, fostering a community of repurpose. This collective act also empowers her gesture itself. Each piece, whether a throne assembled from discarded bicycle parts or plastic objects, or unused musical instruments, narrates a tale of metamorphosis and redemption. It is a tale about a first life and a second life for objects (and so for human beings, as the act of discarding something is a deliberate choice, and involve a precise will), which bring you into looking how time and context could totally change a precise given perspective. 

The imminent Milan Design Week is poised to unveil Oh's latest masterpiece - a unique seating furniture piece that encapsulates her vision and craftsmanship. With an exclusive focus on natural leather, Oh's new piece produced for5 Vie presents another harmonised version of unpredictable piece of furniture. As visitors immerse themselves in Oh's creations, they are not only confronted with striking design but also invited to explore their own narratives. The piece serves as a mirror, reflecting the intricacies of life and the significance of what we leave behind. Oh's work transcends mere aesthetics, offering viewers a glimpse into a parallel, previous world where salvaged beauty and personal stories interlace.

Maria Cristina Didero
Curatorial text Jay Sae Jung Oh
Milan, the 4th of March 2024