about

Gabie Salinas is currently completing a BFA in Studio Art with an emphasis in ceramics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She utilizes Korean forms, namely the Korean moon jar, to display imperfect beauty. These forms are evocative representations of the nation as a whole, and she is able to situate herself into a larger conversation of the many unique experiences of descendants of immigrants. She has shown her work in the Medici Gallery at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

As the daughter of a Korean adoptee, I have always struggled with my connection to my ancestry. I am genetically connected to a rich culture that I was not culturally a part of, I never felt justified identifying fully as Korean or American. I utilize Korean forms, namely the Korean moon jar, to display imperfect beauty. These forms are evocative representations of the nation as a whole, and I am able to situate myself into a larger conversation of the many unique experiences of descendants of immigrants. Through my work I connect personal feelings of family, social constructs, and fleeting moments, to the ideas of the Korean makers of the Joseon Dynasty. 

My methods of creation are deeply personal and connect my physical body to the clay. I roll and pinch each coil to create the rounded vessels, forming each piece of clay between my fingers. This is a profoundly personal experience for me, as I see the clay as a body. Its ability to mold and hold its form under pressure and drastic changes is inherently symbolic of human nature.

I use these forms as an alternative canvas, displaying themes of the Korean folk art style known as Minhwa. The “painting of the people” are representative of the common people of the late Joseon dynasty. I modernize this imagery, utilizing the themes of magpies, tigers, rabbits, and herons to create deeply personal images of dancing natural scenes and the power play of the animals.

My practice has become a physical manifestation of accepting imperfections and serves as a means to begin understanding and connecting to Korean culture as an outsider.

Education

2026 BFA (candidate) in Studio Art, Option in Ceramics, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE

(Expected graduation May 2026)

Awards

2025 Mentorship Scholarship, Women Working With Clay Symposium, Roanoke, VA

2024 Myers B. and Martha H. Cather Excellence Awards (nominated)

Exhibitions

2025 Between Root and Rib, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Medici Gallery, Lincoln, NE

Involvement

2022-26 UNL Clay Club