In the fast-paced world of fashion, where trends come and go, one brand stands out for its commitment to timeless elegance and meticulous craftsmanship. '1 Year Performance,' a leather goods and crafts brand, embodies the delicate balance between tradition and modernity, bringing together the essence of Eastern art with contemporary design.
A Journey of Creative Discovery
Founded in May 2018, '1 Year Performance' was born out of a profound love for both art and craftsmanship. The brand's creator, an artist with a background in traditional Eastern painting, found a new medium of expression in leather. The transition from canvas to leather was not just a change in materials but a continuation of the artist's exploration of how traditional forms can be reinterpreted in the modern world. As the artist puts it, "Leather, like paint, became a medium through which I could express warmth and depth, blending tradition with modernity in a way that feels both timeless and contemporary."
The Meaning Behind the Name
The name '1 Year Performance' is more than just a temporal reference; it signifies the continuous flow of time and the creative process. "The term '1 Year' doesn’t just limit to a specific period but represents the ongoing flow of hours, days, months, and years in our daily lives," the artist explains.
This philosophy is reflected in the brand's approach to design, where the process is valued as much as the final product. The artist draws inspiration from unexpected moments during the creative process, turning what might seem like a trivial detail into a pivotal part of a design. "Even seemingly meaningless actions, when pursued with dedication and repetition, can lead to new creations and art," the artist adds, emphasizing the importance of immersion and joy in their craft.
The Art of Contrasts
'1 Year Performance' is characterized by a deep interest in contrasts—black and white, curves and straight lines, softness and sharpness, old and new. The brand thrives on exploring the blurred lines between these opposites, finding beauty in their intersection. "I’m particularly fascinated by the undefined boundaries and enjoy experimenting with these in my work," the artist remarks. This exploration results in pieces that are not just accessories but are also artistic statements that resonate with a wide audience, transcending age, gender, and style.
The Allure of Leather Craft
For the artist behind '1 Year Performance,' leather is not just a material; it’s a canvas that tells a story. "Leather carries the charm of time while retaining its unique warmth," they share. The hands-on process of crafting each piece allows for a connection to the material that machines cannot replicate. Every stitch, every cut, and every small piece of leather is treated with care, transforming into something beautiful and meaningful. "Even the smallest scraps of leather can become valuable, and every stitch can create a beautiful pattern," the artist notes, highlighting the limitless possibilities that leather craft offers.
Inspired by Korean Heritage: The Moon Jar
One of the most captivating aspects of '1 Year Performance' is how the brand draws inspiration from Korea's rich cultural heritage. A prime example of this is the incorporation of the aesthetic principles of the traditional Korean '달항아리' (Moon Jar) into their designs. The Moon Jar, known for its simple yet profound beauty, embodies the balance of form and emptiness, an idea that deeply resonates with the brand’s philosophy. The artist reflects, "The rounded, imperfect shape of the Moon Jar, with its serene white surface, inspired me to create bags that capture this sense of calm and balance. It’s about finding beauty in simplicity and imperfection."
The Creative Sanctuary
The studio, where most of the artist's time is spent, serves as a sanctuary for creative exploration. It's here, amidst the cutting, stitching, and endless reconfigurations, that new ideas take shape. "The answers to my creative questions are often found at my worktable," the artist reflects. The process of deconstructing and reconstructing materials is not just a means to an end but a method of discovery, leading to the creation of works that are as much about the journey as the destination.
A Philosophy of Practice
At the heart of '1 Year Performance' is a belief in the power of persistence and practice. The artist's creative process is driven by a commitment to constant experimentation and an openness to the unexpected. "The most important thing is to be fully immersed in the process and enjoy the act of creating itself," the artist says. This dedication to the craft is what makes '1 Year Performance' not just a brand but a reflection of the artist’s life philosophy.
Looking Ahead
As '1 Year Performance' continues to evolve, the artist remains focused on the present, grateful for the opportunity to create. "Rather than setting specific goals, I’m thankful for the ability to continue my work each day," they share. This grounded approach allows the artist to explore new ideas and techniques, confident that with time, their most authentic expressions will emerge naturally.
'1 Year Performance' is more than just a brand—it’s a testament to the beauty of craftsmanship and the endless possibilities that arise when tradition meets innovation. Each piece tells a story, not just of its creation but of the time, care, and artistry that went into making it.
As you explore the collection, remember that every item carries with it the philosophy of '1 Year Performance'—a blend of timelessness and modernity, crafted with passion and precision.