“An Exhibition Offering a Glimpse of Hanji's Past and Present”

This exhibition, the third in a series of traditional Korean art showcases designed to promote traditional Korean arts beyond popular culture, aimed to foster a deeper understanding of Korean art. It was specially curated to highlight the excellence and charm of Hanji, one of Korea's representative traditional heritages, for the American public.

Hanji: The Past and Present, held for the first time in North America, resulted from a long-term collaboration with Professor Lee Seung Chul of Dongduk Women’s University, a traditional Hanji researcher and scholar at Kansong Art Museum. Professor Lee had previously presented Hanji exhibitions in France, Italy, Austria, and Hungary. The exhibition introduced the history and tradition of Hanji, showcasing its historical journey and modern art pieces using Hanji. It offered a comprehensive view of Hanji’s past and present through various displays, including Hanji relics, bas-relief works, and installation art.

On September 19 (Thursday), Professor Lee Seung-chul successfully held a Hanji-making demonstration and workshop for students and faculty at Otis College of Art and Design, a Southern California art school. At this event, Professor Lee provided a detailed introduction to the history and excellence of Hanji to over 30 participants, who were able to experience Hanji-making firsthand through both demonstrations and hands-on practice.

The exhibition was recognized as a valuable opportunity for visitors to explore Hanji’s past and present through both Korean artifacts and contemporary works, appreciating the value and significance of Hanji. The Korean Cultural Center Los Angeles plans to continue actively promoting the excellence and charm of Hanji, one of Korea’s representative traditional heritages, to mainstream American society.