Korean Art: Arts 8 Lesson 3

Introduction

• Overview of Korean Art and its significance
• Korea's geographical location between China and Japan
  • Historical ties and cultural exchanges
  • Emphasis on retaining cultural identity

Division of Korea

• Two separate countries: North Korea and South Korea
  • Distinctive forms of art and culture in each
• South Korea:
  • Influenced by Confucian thought and Buddhism
  • Open to foreign innovations, resulting in a rich artistic tradition
• North Korea:
  • More conservative, protective of traditional art forms

Early Korean Art

• High regard for painting as an artistic expression
• Ancient Korean tomb murals (Goguryeo, 37 BC - 66 AD)
  • Focus on emotion of movement rather than beauty
  • Bold outlines to enhance movement
• Artistic preoccupations:
  • Buddhist icons and masterpieces in Goguryeo
  • Jusyeon artists focused on nature (plants, animals, landscapes)
    • Examples: Sagunja (Four Noble Lords), Sipjangsaeng (Ten Creatures of Longevity)

Calligraphy and Ink Painting

• Influenced by Chinese calligraphy techniques
• Importance of precise brush strokes and ink shades
• Shared tools: paper, brush, ink stick, ink stone

Korean Architecture

• Naturalistic, simple style devoid of extreme styling
• Buddhist temples located in mountainous areas
  • Harmony with natural surroundings
• Influence of foreign styles (e.g., Chinese roof designs)
  • Korean roofs more sloping compared to Chinese styles

Sculpture and Buddhism

• Buddha statues as common and revered symbols
• Renowned for simplicity, form, peace, and tranquility
• Temples often feature unique Buddha statues

Korean Pottery and Handicrafts

• Types of pottery:
  • Jungja (blue-green celadon), Baikja (white porcelain), Bonchon (slip-coated stoneware)
  • Characteristics of celadon: jade blue surface; porcelain: milky white with decorative designs
• Handicrafts:
  • Practical household items made with artistic flair
  • Balance and symmetry in wooden furniture and woven items
  • Techniques: embroidery, decorative knot making, natural dyeing

Korean Gardens and Tea Ceremonies

• Connection with nature and emotional/spiritual enjoyment
• Features of typical Korean gardens:
  • Components: land, structures, flowers, trees, water features
  • Landscaped for order and functionality
• Uses: growing fruits, medicinal herbs, and as inspiration for artists
• Tea ceremonies:
  • Conducted in tea houses with Korean architecture
  • Use of traditional pottery and costumes

Artistic Expression in Traditional Art

• Tea ceremony elements:
  • Traditional flower arrangements (gutgezi) emphasizing balance (yeobak)
  • Artistic use of lines and spaces for delicate arrangements
• Hanbok (traditional attire):
  • Worn daily up until 100 years ago, now used for special occasions
  • Represents cultural significance with graceful shapes and colors

Conclusion

• Adaptation of aesthetic principles from Chinese and Japanese arts
• Development of unique Korean styles and techniques
• Emphasis on simple, spontaneous, and harmonious artistic expression

Acknowledgement

• "Kamsamnida" (Thank you) for attending the lesson!