J. Su

“Fool’s Gold”

Expressive Form: Sculpture

Artist’s Statement

Fool’s Gold invites viewers to reflect on the true cost of war, both in human lives and economic expense. While battles throughout history may differ in time and place, they often repeat the same patterns of destruction. By arranging historical wars in a circular composition, I highlight this relentless cycle. I chose to work with chocolate coin wrappers because of their shiny, golden appearance, which mimics something valuable and glorious. However, like the concept of fool’s gold, this surface beauty is deceptive. The material is fragile, just like the lives lost in war, and what may appear precious often hides a harsh and bitter truth underneath.

Inspiration Artists: Toshihiko Mitsuya and HA Schult

Process Diary