By Honorary Reporters Diana Kassandra Almarez and Lani Matugas from the Philippines
Photos= Diana Kassandra Almarez and Lani Matugas 

To mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Korea, the Korean Cultural Center (KCC) in Taguig and the Korea Craft and Design Foundation on Nov. 14 launched the exhibition "Korea Life Aesthetics" at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila.

The event displays the aesthetics of Korean crafts used in daily life passed down for generations. Through Jan. 31, 74 pieces of furniture and household crafts by 33 artists will be exhibited within a Hanok (traditional Korean house).

Greeting visitors right from the start are 28 moon jars, a unique representation of Korean art and craftsmanship. The exhibition is divided into four sections, the first being "Table Set of Accommodation." Under the subtheme of food, the section shows what a traditional Korean table setting looks like. Instantly, visitors can see that this setting is meant for an individual, whereas Filipinos prepare meals that are communal and intended for sharing.

The next section is inside the rooms of the Hanok, "Simple Study." Under the subtheme of writing, the section presents how Korean furniture can be simple but beautiful at the same time. Unadorned and devoid of embellishment, the furniture displays a beauty that emanates from the natural characteristics of the materials used like natural grain, colors and patterns of wood.

Rooms on the left side lead to the next section of "Elegant Boudoir." Under the subtheme of beauty, this section features crafts made by women that show their skills in knots, sewing and embroidery as seen in accessories, trinkets and Hanbok.

The final section of "Naturalistic Rest" has an inner area that replicates a tea room under the subtheme of rest. Showcasing tea sets and tables, the room features a window overlooking a backyard with a view of the trees, emphasizing the importance of rest for the soul and the body. The outer area features three moon jars and a ceramic sculpture of a tiger. 

Additionally, attendees at the opening reception expressed their admiration for the exhibition. Korea.net Honorary Reporter Dawn Naval, who is also a volunteer at the KCC, said, "The exhibition showcases the traditional Korean household that is also evident in contemporary times. Personally, the exhibition gave me a different take on the aesthetics of Korean designs for everyday living. Before, I viewed aesthetic as a standard of physical beauty or a lovely filtered Instagram feed. I was moved by the pieces displayed because Korea has preserved them."

Bae Kyung-min, senior office manager at the University of the Philippines' Korea Research Center, added, "The exhibition brilliantly showcases the simplicity and beauty of Korean crafts. Everyday objects are carefully curated to cross-tradition and modern Korean life aesthetics. On top of that, I was very happy to know that this was the first exhibition in Asia hosted by the Korea Craft and Design Foundation. This kind of exchange in culture and art will open the door wider for people in both countries to understand each other."

chaey0726@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean