David Zink Yi

Neusilber (New Silver)

Hauser & Wirth

Palm Trees, also known as Neusilber (2009–2010), is a captivating series of stainless-steel sculptures by David Zink Yi, exhibited in solo shows at Galerie König Berlin and Musées such as MUDAM Luxembourg. Faithful reproductions of Washingtonia robusta palms—native to southern California—these sculptures are scaled down to approximately 1:10 (around 3.9 m tall) and crafted from laser-cut, hand-bent and welded stainless steel.

The leaves, each made from thin metal sheets bent in up to 95 folds, transform the majestic canopy into a tactile, approachable illusion. By shrinking and freezing these trees in cool silver tones, Zink Yi creates a compelling tension between the organic form and its engineered materiality—an “urban oasis” of reflective calm.

Palm Trees engages with ideas of nature, identity and cultural memory. The artist’s precise craftsmanship emphasises the interplay between realism and artifice, the monumental and the accessible—as well as the boundary between familiar botanical forms and their uncanny metallic manifestations.