Youyang Zhao

Youyang Zhao is a metalsmith and jewellery artist based in London. He trained in metalsmithing and jewellery design at Fu Jen Catholic University in Taiwan before continuing his studies at the Royal College of Art.

My practice has been rooted in his passionate exploration of hammering as a technique for shaping metal. My research focuses on asymmetrical vessels and the subtle differences between various metal materials. By perceiving the subtle changes in the metal sheets, I learned how they responded to the hammering.

I considered these vessels as miniature sculptures, examining and creating curves from different perspectives in an attempt to capture the harmony of asymmetry and balance in geometry and subtle colours.

To preserve the handcrafted aesthetic, I retained a certain roughness and imperfection in my works while intentionally incorporating deliberate flaws into my meticulously hammered curves to evoke a sense of organic beauty.