The art world is buzzing with the news of a unique and interactive exhibition in Glasgow, where the boundaries between art and everyday life are beautifully blurred. This summer, Glasgow Lush is hosting a captivating display of soap sculptures by internationally acclaimed artist Meekyoung Shin, titled 'Korean Classic: In Use'. What makes this exhibition truly remarkable is its emphasis on the viewer's role as an active participant in the creative process, rather than a passive observer.
The sculptures, crafted entirely from soap, are not merely static objects but dynamic entities that evolve with each touch and interaction. Unlike traditional gallery displays, visitors are encouraged to wash their hands using the sculptures, allowing the artworks to gradually change through everyday use. This hands-on approach transforms the viewing experience into a collaborative endeavor, where the audience becomes an integral part of the artistic process.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this project is the artist's intention for the pieces to be worn away over time. As the sculptures collect marks, impressions, and changes from every person who uses them, they become records of shared experiences, time, and everyday interactions. This gradual transformation turns the artworks into tangible reminders of the human touch, making each piece a unique and ever-evolving artifact.
The use of soap as a medium is not only a clever choice but also a powerful statement. Soap, a common household item, becomes a canvas for artistic expression, challenging the notion of what constitutes art. It invites us to reconsider the value of everyday objects and the potential for transformation that lies within them.
Meekyoung Shin's previous collaborations with Lush, including the Duke of Cumberland statue artwork in 2012 and a residency at Glenfiddich Distillery in Scotland, showcase her ability to blend art with everyday life seamlessly. Her work explores ideas around transformation, cultural value, and impermanence, and 'Korean Classic: In Use' is no exception.
The sculptures are displayed beside Lush handwashing stations, allowing customers to interact with them as they would a normal bar of soap. This placement is not arbitrary; it is a deliberate choice to blur the lines between art and utility, inviting viewers to embrace the beauty in the mundane.
The exhibition also highlights Lush's commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing. The soap used in the sculptures is produced by hand at the company's factory in Poole, Dorset, using a palm-free base, no preservatives, and no packaging. Last year, Lush produced 199,500kg of soap, equivalent to more than 845,000 individual products, demonstrating the company's dedication to eco-friendly practices.
As the summer unfolds, the sculptures will continue to evolve, collecting marks and impressions from every person who uses them. This gradual transformation will turn the artworks into records of shared experiences, time, and everyday interactions, making each piece a unique and ever-changing artifact. In September, the used sculptures will be carefully packaged and moved to London for 'The Unclassified', an exhibition at the Korean Cultural Centre UK running from September to December 2026.
The exhibition will feature work from artists including Ayoung Kim, siren eun young jung, and Gala Porras-Kim, exploring what remains outside traditional museum systems of preservation, recording, and classification. This broader perspective on art and its preservation challenges conventional notions of art and its value, inviting us to reconsider our relationship with the creative process.
In my opinion, 'Korean Classic: In Use' is a thought-provoking and engaging exhibition that pushes the boundaries of art and viewer interaction. It invites us to embrace the beauty in the mundane and to reconsider the value of everyday objects. As the sculptures continue to evolve, they will serve as a reminder of the power of human touch and the transformative potential of art in our daily lives. So, if you find yourself in Glasgow this summer, be sure to visit Glasgow Lush and experience the magic of 'Korean Classic: In Use' for yourself.
