What types of art do you specialize in?

We specialize in contemporary ceramics from the 1950s onward, including clay and porcelain sculptures.

Do you offer collection services?

Yes, we work with private collectors and artist archives to organize, document, and appraise ceramic art collections for deacquisition or placement.

Can you help with exhibition development?

Absolutely, we collaborate with museums and cultural institutions to develop and present ceramic art exhibitions.

Do you provide touring programs?

Yes, we curate and organize touring exhibitions for contemporary ceramic artists.

What are legacy projects?

Legacy projects include customized services for artists, such as retrospective catalogs, exhibitions, and museum acquisitions.

STEVEN YOUNG LEE: Saryeong: Four Sacred Creatures

Lillstreet Art Center

4401 N. Ravenswood Ave.
Chicago, IL

On view October 5 – 29, 2026

ABOUT THE EXHIBITION

In ancient Korean tradition, four mystical animals known as the Saryeong embody auspicious and divine forces that represent cosmic order, harmony, and virtue. The Yong (Dragon) symbolizes cosmic authority and sovereign power; the Bonghwang (Phoenix) represents wisdom, noble harmony, and peaceful rule; the Geobuk (Turtle) embodies longevity and divination; and the Girin (Qilin), often depicted with the torso of a deer, the hooves of a horse, and the tail of an ox, represents humane virtue and morality. Together, these sacred beings express an ideal balance between humanity, nature, and the cosmos.

This body of work depicts the Saryeong on four vessels referencing specific porcelain forms from Korea’s Joseon dynasty. Drawing upon the history and cultural significance of Korean ceramics, the vessels connect traditional forms with contemporary concerns. Presented in states of collapse, they evoke the fragility of established structures and the disruption of social order and harmony. Their damaged forms suggest a world in which stability has been unsettled, creating space for reflection on the values that sustain a society.

Emerging from these fractured vessels, the Saryeong take on a renewed significance. As symbols of wisdom, virtue, endurance, and balance, they are brought forth to restore harmony and peace during times of societal disruption. By bringing together ancient mythology and the material language of Korean porcelain, this work explores the enduring relevance of cultural traditions and the possibility of renewal amid uncertainty.