GRAY TURTLE

Im Cheul ‘Gray Turtle’ – Artist Background and Early Influences

I spent my childhood in the 1990s, surrounded by friends and influenced by toy models, video games, animations, movies, and nature documentaries. Growing up, I developed a deep appreciation for nature, observing animals, plants, insects, and fish, all of which sparked my passion for drawing and creating visual art from a young age.

Artistic Path and Sculpture

Afterward, I pursued a major in sculpture, embarking on the journey of becoming an artist. Over the years, my work has continuously evolved as I explored themes like life and death, the environment, and war—subjects that have shaped my creative expression.

Evolution of Artistic Focus

Until 2014, my primary medium was wood sculpture. From 2019 onward, I shifted towards creating sculptures with storytelling elements, specifically focused on the concept of ‘Turtle and Steelhead’, a project I first conceived in 2008.