Rob Rhee Blends Nature and Art in Unique UW Farm Exhibition

As fall envelops Seattle, the UW Farm is showcasing a striking blend of nature and art through the innovative work of assistant professor Rob Rhee. His recent exhibition, titled “Crossings,” held at the Jacob Lawrence Gallery, features unique sculptures that challenge the boundaries between organic life and artistic creation.

Rhee has been cultivating a variety of gourds alongside local farmers, training them within metal cages to assume unusual forms. This technique not only emphasizes the aesthetic potential of plants but also serves as a commentary on the manipulation of nature. His creations evoke a sense of otherworldliness, reminiscent of themes found in Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein.”

In “Crossings,” Rhee exhibits a range of sculptures that incorporate fragmented gourd materials salvaged from the growing process. One noteworthy piece, “Untitled (Sledge),” draws inspiration from the Surrealist artist Hans Bellmer, known for his unsettling depictions of dolls. Rhee’s approach contrasts traditional monumental sculpture with the intimate and often overlooked aspects of everyday life, which he describes as “bricolage.”

Granite Calimpong, a glass artist and UW alumnus, collaborated with Rhee to create “Gist Translation.” This installation features glass vessels that mimic gourd shapes, used to house a nutrient-rich liquid derived from fermented plant cuttings. Rhee explains this process is based on a method from Korean Natural Farming known as JADAM, which involves fermenting plant material to enhance soil health.

Rhee’s exploration of farming practices extends beyond conventional methods. He emphasizes the historical significance of agricultural techniques such as utilizing tidal flows and organic decomposition facilitated by fungi. By experimenting with grafting techniques, Rhee is pushing the boundaries of how we understand plant growth and its potential for artistic expression.

The exhibition also includes a reading shelf featuring books that have influenced Rhee’s artistic journey, fostering a dialogue between literature and visual art. “Jordan Jones, director of the Jacob Lawrence Gallery, and I discussed how to integrate reading materials into the exhibition,” Rhee notes. This interactive element invites viewers to engage more deeply with the themes present in the artwork.

In addition to local venues, Rhee’s work has been showcased at prestigious locations including the Frye Art Museum and the Portland Art Museum. He has participated in international exhibitions, such as the 10th Berlin Biennale and the Ilmin Museum of Art in South Korea. His academic background includes a MFA from Columbia University and a degree from Yale University.

Looking ahead, Rhee is preparing for his next exhibition with curator Derek Franklin at SE COOPER in Portland, scheduled for August 2026. His ongoing exploration sits at the intersection of nature and artistic experimentation, reflecting a dialogue about growth, decay, and transformation. As Rhee continues to push the limits of his medium, his work resonates as a powerful reminder of the intricate relationships between humanity and the natural world.