현대적 재해석을 통한 한국 민화에 관한 표현연구

Abstract

ABSTRACT

A Reinterpretation of Korean Folk Art through Contemporary Expression

- Focusing on my works -

Throughout history, philosophers, scholars, and others have attempted to characterize art in terms of mimesis, expression, communication of emotion, and other values. Though the exact definition of art remains elusive and changes constantly with time, general descriptions propose the idea of creation through human imagination or technical skills. Korea specifically saw the flourishing of many art forms throughout its history, such as jade carving, bronze work, pottery, poetry, calligraphy, music, painting, drama, fiction, etcetera. In the Joseon dynasty, the influence of Confucianism superseded that of Buddhism in Korean society. Paintings in the mid-Joseon dynasty demonstrated a shift towards increased realism in images. The mid- to late Joseon dynasty is considered the golden age of Korean painting and Korean folk art in particular.This period coincided with the shock generated by the collapse of the Ming dynasty, which resulted in Korean artists being made to build new artistic models based on nationalism and an inner search for distinctly Korean subjects. It was at this time that China ceased to have a dominant influence on Korean culture, and Korean art was allowed to take its own path, becoming increasingly distinctive in the process. According to popular beliefs in ancient Korea, cosmic forces are embodied by elements that can be observed in the natural world. Koreans believed that it is important to follow a path of good living in order to exist harmoniously within the natural order of the universe. In the past, Koreans used to place Korean traditional folk art paintings on the walls or doors of their homes for good luck and to dispel bad luck. The folk paintings featured auspicious animals and symbols such as peony, the rooster, or the phoenix. Peony is one of the most popular symbolic items, being used to wish long life to an individual in Korean folk art. The rooster is a traditionally favorable animal that brings fortune and hope, while the phoenix is believed to be the king of birds and a symbol of wealth and hope among the Korean people. Another common element is the pine tree which, due to its remaining green throughout winter, is symbolic of steadfastness and integrity. The most important and identifiable characteristic of this researcher’s works is the combination of Korean and Western subjects and painting styles. Contemporary Korean artistic expression is quite distinct and unique, despite its relatively short history. In this researcher’s work, many traditional Korean folk art symbols are reborn with unique characteristics. Although each piece incorporates traditional Korean symbols, the symbols are transformed with the use of modern western materials such as acrylic and oil-based paints. The potential advantages of working with Korean traditional folk art in a contemporary context are limitless and free of constraints that would otherwise confine the possible ways of expression, enabling the work to appeal to audiences independent of nationality, age, and race. The desire for happiness is universal among humans, and it is the only concept desired for its own sake. As such, the fusion of folk art with elements that traditionally invoke happiness, hope, and feelings of love is the central focus of this researcher’s work, creating a style that, while familiar to many, is also unique in its own right.