Lush mountains, pristine rivers, sparkling waterfalls and animals are found in traditional Korean paintings known as ‘Minhwa’, which are drawn on ‘hanji’ (handmade paper). Minhwa that originated in the Joseon dynasty combines deep colours, wit and optimism to convey a philosophy distinct to Korea. These paintings are used as talismans, for instance the painting of lotus flowers is usually placed in the drawing room of a house and is said to bring good luck and prosperity to the family.
“I started painting when I was in middle school. The art classes in school kindled my interest and I have pursued the art for over 30 years. The concept of this exhibition is ‘looking out from within,” says artist and calligrapher Soon-Jin Park, who is trained professionally. Having lived in India for the past two years, one can see the influence of our culture in Park’s most recent works.
“In calligraphy a special brush and ink, made from charcoal are used. There are different techniques to hold a brush, which one has to perfect to write properly.
“Calligraphy was used in olden days for communication, now it is considered an art form. As there are many fonts in calligraphy, it may take a longer time to master it,” adds Park.
“In Minhwa painting we use only five colours. But when I came to India, I found a variety of colours being used on various things such as saris. It inspired me to widen my palette,” says Park, who also teaches calligraphy and oriental painting at Inko Centre, Chennai.
India influence is the highlight of her exhibition, ‘In and Out’, which depicts life in Korea and India. It also gives the impression that she is trying to bring together her two worlds.
Individualistic style
An important aspect of Park’s work is the overly simplified form of objects that shows us a rather individualistic style of landscape painting.
“Some of my paintings are also based on the ancient Korean works. It is full of history. At the first glance it seems easy to paint but it is actually not. Minhwa decorated royal court rooms and adorned ceilings. It is now drawn even on hand fans,” reveals Park, who has had four solo and more than a hundred group exhibitions.
Her exhibition in Chennai is on at Inko Centre till June 16.
