Provided by Seoul Museum of Craft Art

In a joint initiative, Seoul City and Seoul Craft Museum, led by Director Kim Soo-jeong, have introduced the "Seoul City Yoolizzy Craft Prize." This newly established prize aims to bolster the growth of Korean craft culture and provide a platform for craftspeople to express their creativity. The origins of this initiative trace back to July 2022, when the surviving family of the late artist Yoolizzy (1945-2013) pledged the prize's operational funds to the Seoul Metropolitan Government.

Yoolizzy (1945-2014), an esteemed artist and educator, was a pivotal figure in Korea's first generation of modern crafts. Notably, She significantly contributed to the establishment and advancement of modern metal crafts within Korea, dedicating her entire life to artistic endeavors and supporting the next generation of craftspeople. 

▲ The late Yoolizzy artist (1945-2013), Provided by Seoul Museum of Craft Art
The inaugural "Seoul City Yoolizzy Craft Prize" contest was officially announced on September 20, 2023, and remain open for submissions until January 15, 2024. The evaluation process will involve two rounds: an initial document screening to shortlist 20 finalists, followed by a subsequent physical screening of these finalists to determine the ultimate victor. The final winning entry will be unveiled at the awards ceremony slated for August 2024.

During a month-long commemorative exhibition at the Seoul Craft Museum, the 20 finalists, including the winning entry, will be accessible to the public. Furthermore, the ultimate winning creation will receive a range of benefits as a mark of distinction.

To mark the 10th anniversary of Yoolizzy's passing and to celebrate the establishment of the "Seoul City Yoolizzy Craft Prize," an academic forum took place on Friday, September 22nd, in the Education Building's auditorium at the Seoul Craft Museum. Hosted by the Yoolizzy Craft Center, the forum provided insights into Yoolizzy's life and artistic contributions.

Sayart.net 

Blue YIM, yimyoungseo1010@naver.com