Jiyeon Ryu

Many of us have a scientific worldview, from the atomic structure to the universe's scope. However, it gives no existential guidance. It does not teach us how to make ourselves meaningful. Why do we feel miserable sometimes? Why do we keep making the same mistakes over and over? Why are we acting stupid sometimes?


I am interested in the meaning of ourselves in an existential way - inner conflict, wisdom, meditation, religion, etc. Mental health is at great risk, and it’s growing and growing. This happens because we are missing out on our understanding of meaning. We all want to know our origin and be close to reality, our real selves. There is no institution to teach us anymore in the modern world. I want to visualise this subject to the audience, so we can start thinking about our meaning.


I use oil painting and sculpture to express my interest. I mostly paint figurative of wise men, young baby girls and boys, revelling people, and animals. The paintings show the balance between my drive to learn the truth, controlling social behaviour and taming my desires.


I am based in London and educated in South Korea and Sweden.

2022-2023 Grad Diploma, Chelsea College of Art & Design, London, UK

2018 BOT, IMD business school, Switzerland

2004-2006 MS, Organic Chemistry (minor mathematics), Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden

2001-2004 BS, Chemistry, Sungkyunkwan University, Korea, Graduated with top honors in the Science department

Solo Exhibitions

2022 Bipolar, BG17 Chelsea College of Art & Design, London, UK

Group Exhibitions

2023 Kare, Triangle Space in Chelsea college of arts, London, UK

2023 International Women’s day exhibtion, Chelsea college of arts, London, UK