Paul Rho (노바울, b.1989, Seoul, Korea) is an interdisciplinary artist based in New York whose work explores the intersection of personal memory and the physical materiality of photography. Rho earned his BFA from the School of Visual Arts and an MFA from Columbia University, following a Foundation Diploma at the University of the Arts London.
Rho’s practice redefines photographic components—paper, film, and light-sensitive chemicals—as raw materials for sculpture rather than mere tools for storytelling. In a digital age of "0s and 1s," he honors the pioneers of the medium by focusing on tangible chemical reactions and analog processes, transforming photographs into three-dimensional forms.
His work is deeply influenced by personal experiences, such as folding and sewing, as well as traditional Korean pottery and music. After leaving Korea at age 14, Rho lived in Canada, Italy, UK, Argentina, and the United States. Following two decades as an expat, he is now navigating and accepting his roots through his creative practice. He currently resides and works in New York.