Imoogi, the process of finding a shape in silver

In Korean folklore, the Imoogi is a creature on the verge of becoming a dragon. This project didn't begin with a complete image in mind. Rather, the direction gradually became clearer as the work progressed. This article documents that process.

1. Start

Initially, I wanted to see what forms were possible within the material of silver, rather than just the symbol itself. So, I stripped the structure down to its bare essentials: eyes, horns, and teeth. Rather than intentionally revealing emotions, I left the form as is.

2. Create a structure

Instead of making the entire shape as one, it is made by dividing it into several small parts.
I soldered it together. The shape was modified several times during the process, and it diverged from the initial concept. I accepted these changes as part of the project.

3. Production order

The work was carried out in the following order:

1st treatment → brazing → 2nd treatment → stone setting → final polishing

Each piece was first individually polished and the basic shape was established through a preliminary touch-up. The entire piece was then soldered together, and balance and proportions were then refined. The stones were set in a random manner, rather than bezel-mounted. Finally, the work was completed with polishing and surface finishing.

4. Imoogi and Yongyong

While working, I casually referred to him as "Yongyong." It wasn't his official name, but more of a nickname given to him in the studio. The format changed several times before finally settling into its current structure.