By Honorary Reporter Monthi Rosselini from Indonesia
Photos = Lee Ji-yeon

Artist Lee Ji-yeon creates beautiful artwork using the traditional Korean chilbo gongye, a craft that uses multi-colored enamel attached with plaster to metal bases. I first saw Lee’s work on a TV program and was mesmerized by the beauty of chilbo. I conducted an interview with the artist on July 7 via email to learn more about this Korean craft.

Please briefly introduce yourself. 
Hello, my name is Lee Ji-yeon and I am a chilbo artist working in the city of Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do Province. I first encountered chilbo gongye at the Namdaemun Shopping Center in Seoul. I fell in love with its mysterious colors and from 2007 decided to work as a chilbo artist. My works are displayed both locally and worldwide. 

What is chilbo?
Chilbo is made by coating various colors of enamel powder which is baked several times at a temperature of over 800 degrees Celsius. In the past, chilbo was considered a high-value piece of art because the colors looked like seven precious gemstones. Chilbo gongye first came to Korea with the influence of Buddhism and was used to make accessories for the royal family in the late Joseon Dynasty.

How would you describe your chilbo gongye style?
I treat my work process as creating a piece of art rather than practicing a craft. I often get inspired by nature, especially the scenery in the garden of my studio, where butterflies and flowers create a bright atmosphere.

What is your most memorable achievement?
In 2018, I participated in an exhibition hosted by the Jeonju Cultural Foundation in Italy. Then, my work was purchased by the Italian Embassy in Korea. It was one that combined a modern style with traditional patterns. The Italian Embassy took a liking to it because they felt that the colors matched the Italian sentiment. They were also happy to see that Hallyu was gaining popularity in Italy.

Is there a country you want to work in as a chilbo artist?
I would love to do an overseas exhibition in Germany. Germany also has a traditional craft that is similar to chilbo called “cloisonné,” and I think holding an exhibition there would be a great opportunity for cultural exchanges.

Are there any foreign art techniques you want to integrate with chilbo?
I want to try silver craft and grafting with chilbo.

What advice would you give those that want to learn the chilbo craft?
The process of making chilbo art is difficult and the materials can be expensive, so it might be hard to keep up with the craft. However, chilbo will survive even in the era of AI art because it is handmade and requires advanced skills. If you love being a chilbo artist, you should pursue your dream. Chilbo will always be a rare craft, and by practicing it you will be contributing to the continuation of Korea's heritage.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article was 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.