[Minhwa]: Cultural Memory and Shine

This program explores Minhwa, or Korean folk painting, as a vibrant art form that expresses the spirit of Korean culture through symbolism, spiritual themes, and everyday objects. From Chaekgeori (books and things) to Peony and Stone paintings and Tiger and Magpie imagery, attendees will discover how folk art reflects Korea’s animistic worldview, humor, and resistance to authority, often through multi-perspective techniques distinct from Western realism. By tracing the transformation of motifs such as curiosity cabinets, sacred stones, and gendered objects, the lecture reveals how Minhwa evolved into a visually rich, culturally layered genre that speaks to Korean identity and collective memory—what can be called “Korea’s soul painting.”

The lecture also examines the use of metal leaf in traditional Korean folk painting. Attendees will learn about the materials, tools, and techniques involved, as well as the historical and symbolic significance of metal leaf in both Eastern and Western art. The session includes hands-on practice and demonstrations, offering a unique opportunity to enhance artistic skills and deepen understanding of this traditional medium.