Art of the Joseon Dynasty: History and Inspiration.
Bringing five centuries of history alive through historical artifacts and modern perspectives.
Houston, Museum of Fine Arts: Highlighting the rich artistic heritage of the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1897), the Museum of Fine Arts unveils its newly renovated Arts of Korea Gallery. This new exhibition brings five centuries of history to life through stunning artworks by three contemporary artists, offering modern interpretations of traditional Korean art.
The exhibition, “a fusion of historical artifacts and modern perspectives,” features more than 100 artifacts, including:
Paintings: Terracotta tiles, rolling paintings and curtains depicting historical figures, landscapes and religious subjects.
Sculpture: Buddhist statues, terracotta and metal work. Clothing; Royal wear, casual wear and formal wear.
These artifacts highlight various aspects of the Joseon era, including Royal Life Portraits of Kings, Queens and Other Members of the Royal Court. Scenery Pictures of the beautiful mountains, rivers and coasts of the Korean Peninsula. Popular Culture; Images of Folklore, Religious Beliefs and Traditional Festivals. Creative interpretations by three contemporary artists:
In addition to historical artifacts, three contemporary Korean artists have created modern interpretations of Joseon Dynasty art:
Lee Jeon: She uses recycled materials to create modern interpretations of traditional Korean clothing.
Kim Yung-ho: He used iron scraps to create sculptures from Joseon era royal palaces.
Park Chang-kyu: He creates modern video installations based on Joseon era paintings.
These artists’ work explores traditional themes and techniques in new ways, encouraging viewers to make connections between past and present.
Creative interpretations by three contemporary artists:
Along with historical artifacts, three contemporary Korean artists – Lee Jeon, Kim Yung-ho and Park Chang-kyu – have created modern interpretations of Joseon Dynasty art. Their paintings, sculptures and installations explore traditional themes and techniques in new ways, encouraging viewers to make connections between past and present.
Lee Jeon: Uses the delicate lines and vivid colors of traditional Korean painting to depict royal life in the Joseon era.
Kim Yung-ho: Creates landscape sculptures that blend the forms and elements of traditional Korean sculpture with a modern sensibility. Park Chang-kyu: Creates installations of popular culture from the Joseon era that invite visitors to interact with the past and think anew about Korean heritage.
