BLOOOMING

2022 - ongoing

photo by Pim Top

BLOOOMING originates from Dae Uk Kim’s research into mutated nature and his belief that all beings exist in a constant state of transformation.The series draws inspiration from naturally occurring botanical mutations such as the four-leaf clover, a rare deviation that emerges through disruption and regeneration and has become a cultural symbol of luck and exceptionality.

The sculptural forms reference the phenomenon of fasciation, an abnormal growth condition in vascular plants in which the apical meristem expands laterally and produces elongated, ribbon-like structures. Fasciation can result from genetic, hormonal, environmental, or bacterial disturbances and is often cultivated for its unusual aesthetic qualities.

Through these anthropomorphized floral entities, Kim explores the paradox between how mutation and rarity in nature are celebrated, while difference and deviation within human society are frequently marginalized. BLOOOM- ING positions mutation not as defect but as a generative force, a site where vulnerability, beauty, and resistance coexist.

BLOOOMING.011, 2025
20 × 20 × 72 cm (W × L × H) 
silicone, metal, wood, glass dome

photo by Pim Top






BLOOOMING.010, 2025
20 × 20 × 72 cm (W × L × H) 
silicone, metal, wood, glass dome

photo by Pim Top






BLOOOMING.009, 2025
20 × 20 × 72 cm (W × L × H)
silicone, artificial hair, metal, wood, glass dome

photo by Pim Top






BLOOOMING.008, 2025
20 × 20 × 72 cm (W × L × H)
silicone, artificial hair, metal, wood, glass dome

photo by Pim Top






BLOOOMING.007, 2024
20 × 20 × 72 cm (W × L × H)
silicone, artificial hair, piercing, metal, wood, glass dome

photo by Pim Top






BLOOOMING.006, 2024
20 × 20 × 72 cm (W × L × H)
silicone, artificial hair, metal, wood, glass dome

photo by Pim Top






BLOOOMING.005, 2024
20 × 20 × 72 cm (W × L × H)
silicone, artificial hair, metal, wood, glass dome

photo by Pim Top






BLOOOMING.004, 2024
20 × 20 × 72 cm (W × L × H)
silicone, artificial hair, metal, wood, glass dome

photo by Pim Top






BLOOOMING.003, 2024
20 × 20 × 72 cm (W × L × H)
silicone, artificial hair, piercing, metal, wood, glass dome

photo by Pierre Castignola






BLOOOMING.002, 2024
20 × 20 × 72 cm (W × L × H)
silicone, artificial hair, piercing, metal, wood, glass dome

photo by Pierre Castignola






BLOOOMING.001, 2022
20 × 20 × 72 cm (W × L × H)
silicone, artificial hair, piercing, metal, wood, glass dome

photo by Pierre Castignola