Dandelion

Dandelion is a video animation project that explores the theme of memory. It visualizes the process of memories fading over time through the metaphor of dandelion seeds dispersing in the wind. The video unfolds as follows: particles of dandelion seeds gather to form photographs, which then scatter due to the wind. In total, seven photographs are shown in the video. These images were collected through social media and from friends and acquaintances. I asked, “Please send me a photo that is precious and meaningful to you.” As a result, I was able to collect these seven photos, each carrying significant memories.

Throughout the video, the photographs appear one by one and disintegrate in different ways, carried away by the wind. At the end, the dandelion seed particles from different images mix together, symbolizing the imperfection of memory. This work aims to encourage viewers to reflect on their own cherished memories and revisit moments they hold dear.

Dandelion was selected for Goldstücke 2024, an exhibition held in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, in October 2024. The exhibition ran for a total of 5 days, featuring works by other Young Masters alongside mine in the historic Ratskeller venue. The piece was installed near a window, where natural light in the evening enhanced the atmosphere, filling the space with a warm, immersive glow. A coincidental touch of fog drifting from another artist’s fog machine further enriched the dreamlike quality of the work. The video was projection-mapped onto two layers of fabric. The fabric, brought from Korea, is traditionally used for Korean clothing, adding cultural significance. Its semi-transparency allowed the visuals to pass through the two layers and onto the wall behind, illustrating the way memories blur and fade the more we try to recall them. A fan placed opposite the installation gently stirred the fabric, creating a natural, wind-like movement that complemented the work’s concept.

The video is a 3D animation based on photographs. The main software used was Blender, with final editing and color correction completed in After Effects.