Leon Cho ( he/him )

My exploration began with my interest in East Asian mythology tales and figures, with their narrative powers, through the visual lens of drawings and paintings. My work encompasses storytelling through the use of tangible vessels and figures to describe and represent a memory or idea in statues and artifacts.

I use “demons” as a reference for their physical power and their magical and mythical characteristics.  I refer to both myself and my creations as 'demons' to express the feelings and the perceived perception of being an outsider within a society.  Adorned with menacing spikes, horns, and carved textures I decorate and stylize my forms through a subconscious process. Built all by traditional coil hand-building techniques and methods. 

 Drawing inspiration from my Japanese and Korean cultural heritage and my upbringing in Los Angeles, my work carries an aesthetic that celebrates the fusion of these cultural influences. My clay vessels have become icons, statutes, guardians of my peace, and a celebration of myself and others beyond my existence. 

Leon Cho is a Master’s Student pursuing his degree in Visual Arts with a focus in Ceramics. His unique background and experience deeply influence his work—a blend of Japanese and Korean heritage, with his early years spent in Japan and his life experiences as an Asian American in Los Angeles. This multicultural perspective shapes his artistic approach, as he uses ceramics to explore and reconcile the nuances between his cultures and experiences. Leon seeks to create a dialogue between his diverse cultural experiences through his art to better understand his position and heritage, reflecting his personal journey and artistic vision.