Born in the heart of Seoul, in Huam-dong, Yongsan District, metal artist Hyun Kwang-hun has anticipated and mirrored the transformation of the timepiece industry. He utilizes his affinity for metallurgy, his creativity, and a keen understanding of horology, the art and science of measuring time.
In an era dominated by digital advancement, Hyun decides to reintroduce the elegance of intricate cogwheels and the charm of analog mechanics. Focusing on the assembly and intricate details of watch parts, Hyun’s unique artistic style quickly grabs the eye. Yet, it is more than mere aesthetics; it reveals an engaging tale of a bygone era, one that existed before digitalization.
Dissimilar to the hermetically sealed cases of modern wristwatches, Hyun’s artwork unveils the satisfying complexity of cogs and gears operating in harmony. His intention is to enable spectators to appreciate the kinetic ballet of fine watches. His unique creations incorporate elements of visual and kinetic art, breathing a second life into dismissed and forgotten pieces of metal.
When the viewer looks closer, additional components of Hyun’s creations emerge. In several pieces, the composition of intricate cogwheels is intertwined with the timeless beauty of traditional Korean wooden lattice frames. This integration creates art pieces that connote duality, amalgamations of both past and present.
In addition to timepieces, Hyun also crafts handmade film cameras. These cameras perfectly encapsulate his fascination with mechanics and his desire to unveil the complexity within. Appearing more like a moving sculpture than a conventional camera, the analog device fits neatly in hand, inviting users to explore the internal workings, and as a result, gain a newfound appreciation for the craftsmanship involved.
Hyun’s journey towards horology began during his childhood. He exhibited characteristics of an inquisitive mind and a potential scientist as he loved assembling and disassembling objects within his reach. Hyun built his first radio when he was little, revealing early signs of the technical genius he was to become.
His intense fascination for the analog timepieces began when he discovered the need for automated shutters for his camera. Inspired by a documentary on the meticulous craftsmanship of Swiss watchmakers, he decided to incorporate a watch movement into his camera.
Studying the complexities and precision of Swiss watch movement was a meticulous process that took Hyun two years. He procured machinery and tools that were unavailable in Korea through international sources, diligently teaching himself the ins and outs of the technology that operated the elegant timepieces. After studying all steps involved in watchmaking, he began creating his unique pieces, a testament to his dedicated craft and unique vision.
Being a master craftsman requires intense dedication, and Hyun is no exception to this rule. In creating his timepieces or cameras, each piece undergoes a thorough quality check. Hyun disassembles and reevaluates each part after completion, a process undoubtedly time-consuming yet essential in his quest for perfection.
His passion for mechanically driven objects and intricate work crafts Hyun one of the few hundred watch masters worldwide. His work stands as a timeless testament to the craftsmanship and pride of artisan skills.
Hyun’s efforts stray from conventional commercial production. He emphasizes the need for creativity in projects and has committed to studying and creating more artistic pieces. Also, as artificial intelligence and digitalization move to the fore, Hyun continues to showcase the beauty of mechanical objects. His artworks and devices remind viewers of simpler times and the inherent beauty of hands-on craftsmanship, leading people to appreciate the small yet critical parts that make the world tick, such as the often overlooked cogwheel.
Thus, Hyun Kwang-hun epitomizes the synergy of art and machinery, making his creations a treasured reminder in a world that is rapidly advancing towards complete digitalization. His unique “Heartbeat series” seamlessly captures the essence of exquisite craftsmanship and the timeless beauty in analog devices, truly setting the artist’s heartbeat in metal.
