HA I I HWA is both a plant artist and an art director, seamlessly blending the realms of nature and artificial elements to craft an uncharted world—one that offers a glimpse into extraterrestrial plant ecosystems and evokes a sense of wonder not typically encountered in our daily lives. Her deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity of nature, particularly in the myriad forms and lines of plants, fuels her creative passion. Just as every human face carries its own uniqueness, the plants perceived by the artist possess distinct and captivating features. This diversity bestows upon viewers an endless source of astonishment. HA I I HWA aspires for the extraterrestrial plants she conceives to be regarded by people as new life forms, previously unseen on Earth, invoking a profound sense of reverence. Simultaneously, she hopes this exploration will spark an expanded discourse on the transformations our natural world undergoes amidst climate change and societal advancement.
At SCOPES Seoul, HA I I HWA unveils "Extraterrestrial Plants: Jokduri." Her inspiration stems from the intriguing tale of "Princess Bari(Bari Gongju)", an encounter that unfolded during her collaboration with designer Minju Kim at the London V&A fashion show. The narrative chronicles the life of a woman born as the seventh daughter of a royal couple who fervently desired a son but instead cast her aside. Despite her inauspicious beginnings, she willingly embarks on a journey to the afterlife to save her ailing parents. Bari endures seven years of trials in the afterlife, securing the Waters of Life and the Resurrection Flower, ultimately restoring her parents to health. As the ancestral figure connecting the realms of the living and the dead, Princess Bari becomes a symbol of Korean shamanism. "Extraterrestrial Plants: Jokduri" offers a visual representation of the ornate headpiece worn by Princess Bari. The artist skillfully captures the mystical plants - "Bonesaver," "Flesh-saver," and "Blood-saver" - featured in the myth, which aid in the process of rebirth. The opulent headpiece symbolizes the underlying narrative of the Princess Bari myth. This myth transcends the realm of the supernatural and can also be interpreted as a story of "dedication to parents"" and the portrayal of "strong, fearless women." Furthermore, the artist masterfully portrays the intricate inner world of Princess Bari, where shadows and light coexist harmoniously.